Case Result: Probation of Social Worker License Dissolved, Administrative Complaint Dismissed

Professional:
Social Worker

Primary Issue:
A Michigan social worker was placed on probation after the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) found that she had violated the confidentiality provision of the child protection statute, because they believed she had disclosed the identity of a mandated reporter. We challenged the administrative complaint, and the hearing officer ruled in our client’s favor. However, LARA overruled the hearing officer, finding she violated the confidentiality provision, and therefore, the standard of care, and placed the social worker on probation. We appealed the decision to the Michigan Court of Appeals.

Result:
We argued several novel reasons to overturn LARA’s decision. The Court of Appeals reversed the decision and dismissed the complaint. The reversal was obtained because we demonstrated that LARA failed to consider all of the evidence and merely “robotically found that LARA established its case … without regard to and [without] looking at the larger picture.”

Our attorneys have the knowledge and experience necessary to mitigate the impact a licensing complaint has upon the licensee. Additionally, our extensive knowledge and experience permits us to maneuver the nuances of the Michigan Administrative Hearings System to the advantage of our clients.

Areas of Law:
Professional Licensing Defense
Summary Suspension Orders
Administrative Hearings and Complaints

This information is a sample of our past results. Prospective clients may not obtain the same or similar results. Every case is different and each case must be evaluated and handled on its own merits. The circumstances of your case may differ from the results provided. The information provided has not been reviewed or approved by the State Bar.