Doctors, Roofers, Veterinarians and all the other professionals licensed by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) have one thing in common, they worked hard to get their license. When IDFPR contacts you, take it seriously and call a lawyer. (Tip 1 – Don’t talk to IDFPR without a lawyer)
What should you do if IDFPR calls?
Understand that your license is at risk. You spent significant time and money to get licensed. This is the moment to spend the time and money to ensure you don’t jeopardize your license. An attorney that knows the process will be essential, find a lawyer that knows IDFPR’s process and understands government. (Tip 2 – Hire a lawyer based on their specific experience (eg. most criminal lawyers are not also tax lawyers). Hire the right attorney for the precise situation.)
Your Lawyer Is Your Sole Confidant
Did IDFPR call you? Have you gotten a formal complaint at work? Once your employer or the State starts an investigation. Stop talking. Do not talk to your friends, teachers, or co-workers, those are all witnesses.
Investigations and audits can be stressful, find a therapist to help you through this time. (Tip 3 – Craft a sentence you will say repeatedly about the incident or investigation regardless of who asks you.)
Don’t Wait – Be Proactive
No matter how baseless you believe a complaint may be, take it seriously. Clients can be so engrossed in the facts that they can’t see the large regulatory issues. If you think you are being investigated or have a regulatory question, call a lawyer and ask for a free 10-minute consultation. (Tip 4 – Ask an attorney for a free consultation.)
Make the First Response Count
Like any first impression, your first contact with IDFPR is very important. Having a well-crafted response will guide the investigation or case and ensure that your objectives are top of mind.
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The information in this blog post is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be legal advice. You should not make a decision whether or not to contact an attorney based upon the information in this blog post. No attorney-client relationship is formed, nor should any such relationship be implied. If you require legal advice, please consult with an attorney licensed to practice in your jurisdiction.