When you receive a notice of investigation from the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) or the Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT), the first question most nurses ask—after “What happens now?”—is “How much is this going to cost?” At License Alliance, we understand that legal fees are a major concern. However, the cost of hiring a nursing license defense attorney in California is about more than a dollar amount—it is about weighing the expe

Protecting your nursing license is about more than maintaining a credential; it’s about safeguarding your livelihood and the career you worked so hard to build. At License Alliance, we know many nurses wait until a situation becomes critical before seeking legal advice—often out of fear that doing so might make them “look guilty.” However, early intervention is often the key to a successful resolution. Below is a breakdown of when you should proactively contact a Board of Nu

Getting a professional license can be a daunting process, especially if you have a past mistake on your record. At License Alliance, we believe in transparency and helping healthcare professionals navigate the complexities of licensure. One of the most common questions we receive is: “Can I still become a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) or Psychiatric Technician (PT) in California if I have a criminal conviction?” The short answer is yes—but there are specific rules and proce

Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT) The BVNPT regulates the education, practice and discipline of licensed vocational nurses (LVN) and psychiatric technicians (PT). Consumer welfare is protected by ensuring that only qualified and competent persons are licensed as LVNs or PTs. LVNs and PTs are expected to perform within the law governing their practice. Reports of Misconduct The Board works diligently with consumers of healthcare, the Board's licen

You have been arrested and the Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians has been notified of your arrest. Now what? The Board opens a case file and assigns an analyst to manage the case file. The analyst contacts you by mail to request a statement about your arrest. The analyst requests a certified copy of the arrest or detention report from the law enforcement agency that arrested or detained you. If the district attorney, city attorney, or other prosecuting

Navigating Probation: How to Keep Your License While Meeting BRN Requirements If the Board decides on a "Stayed Revocation" with probation, your license remains active, but you are under a microscope for a set period (usually 3 to 5 years). The Reality of Probation: Probation isn't just a "warning." It involves strict "Probation Monitoring," which may include: Random drug testing (at your expense). Worksite monitors and quarterly reports. Required nursing courses or psycholo

From Investigation to Legal Action: Defending Your Right to Practice If an investigation f #defendyourrights   inds evidence of a violation, the Board moves toward "Legal Action." This is the most critical phase for your future as a nurse. Two Main Paths: Citations and Fines: For minor violations, you may receive a fine. While less severe than losing a license, these still appear on your record. Formal Accusation: For more serious allegations, the Board files an "Accusation.

Under the Microscope: What to Expect During a License Investigation?   If the BRN determines a complaint has merit, they move to the "Investigation" phase. This is no longer just a paperwork review—it’s a formal inquiry that can involve sworn peace officers from the Division of Investigations (DOI).  What Investigators Do:   Interviews: They will likely want to speak with you, your manager, and witnesses.  Evidence Gathering: They will subpoena medical records, personnel

You’ve Been Notified of a Complaint: What Happens Next?   For any registered nurse, receiving notice that a complaint has been filed against your license is a heart-stopping moment. But understanding the "Complaint Intake" phase—the first step in the California BRN enforcement process—can help you stay calm and take the right steps to protect your career.  How it Starts:  Complaints can come from anyone: patients, coworkers, employers, or even an anonymous source. The BRN ty