A Guideline To A Legal Representation Nurses

By April Briggs


We all require advice, guidance or defense related to law from time to time. Professionals are mandated by law to abide by certain procedures and stipulations during their practice. Nursing like any other profession is liable to legal risk and need advice or defense in a court of law or a disciplinary board. Legal representation nurses are as important as the practice of nursing to nurses.

A good nurse must understand his or her rights, especially pertaining the workplace. If cases when one is not sure, it is safer to ask from someone well versed in the nursing law to be on the safe side. Attorneys come in handy at this particular point because they not only offer advice but also, representation if need be. They help in cases of forced overtime, whistle blowing, wrongful discharge among other concerns.

When a letter of complaint or reports emerges about an individuals professional practice or conduct, lawyers give counsel as appropriate so that the person under question understands their options. Additionally, when one is called as a witness in a proceeding, for instance, a Coroners inquest about a work-related incident, counsel helps in preparing testimony.

Other areas that a nurse may require attorney services is in employment contract reviews, renewing of licenses and Human Right claims. In case one is prosecuted or summoned before a court of law or before the Board of Nursing, it is important to have an attorney present to protect your rights and interests. The other side has an attorney to protect their interests, why should you not?

It is important to hire the right lawyer. He or she should be experienced and knowledgeable in administrative and nursing law to adequately argue the case before a court or the board. The best way to find out is to conduct an education background check. Also, one should ask a lot of questions in a bid to determine the attorneys level of experience in your case.

When it comes to funding legal advice or representation, there are various options at disposal. One may decide to finance the process from their own pockets that may be expensive in the long run. Alternatively, one may take insurance cover to take care of such costs as and when they arise. For instance, a malpractice insurance cover is offered by many companies at an affordable rate. Also, one may opt for nursing associations that provide financial aid in such situations.

If there are problems in the workplace, one should take the time to learn everything they can about the problems. One should evaluate whether the problem is affecting patient care and whether there are policies concerning the problem. If not familiar with the ethical or legal provisions, you may consult with someone who is knowledgeable. After understanding what is happening in relation to existing rules and policies, the first step is to raise the issue with the administration.

The administration should be willing to rectify the situation but if for any reason they are not, you may ask help from other sources. The nursing union usually has representatives in the workplace or, the local nursing association. Another option is a lawyer who will advise on the best way forward. However, what you do, ensure that it is within the boundaries of reason and law.




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