Arizona Board of Massage Therapy Attorney
The job of the Arizona Board of Massage Therapy is to protect and promote the welfare of the people of Arizona. They do this by ensuring each person who holds a license as a massage therapist in the state of Arizona is able to practice safely. This means the Arizona Board of Massage Therapy has the authority to discipline the license of any massage therapist. Chelle Law’s Arizona Board of Massage Therapy Attorneys have represented over 1,000 health care professionals before Arizona licensing boards. Our attorney’s have the experience to help massage therapists with all Arizona Board of Massage Therapy matters. We assist issues including:
- Massage Therapist
- School of Massage Therapy
Arizona Board of Massage Therapy Complaint
Who can file a complaint against a massage therapist? Patients, health care facilities, other professionals, among others. When the Arizona Board of Massage Therapy receives a complaint, the Board initiates an investigation into the complaint (if the Board has jurisdiction and the Complaint isn’t dismissed). After this happens, the massage therapist receives notice and the board assigns an investigator to the case. Please note, having an attorney during this step can be crucial for massage therapists. This is because they will need to submit a response, interview with an investigator while also possibly appearing at a Arizona Board of Massage Therapy Meeting.
Arizona Board of Massage Therapy Application Assistance
Applicants to the Arizona Board of Massage Therapy with a criminal history or previous discipline by the Arizona Board of Massage Therapy (or any other Board) may be subject to denial of their application for licensure. Thus, those with a criminal or disciplinary history from other licensing boards will face an investigation by the Board.
Reporting a Criminal Charge to the Arizona Board of Massage Therapy
Massage therapists who hold a valid license with the Arizona Board of Massage Therapy or pending applicants must notify the Board of any criminal charge that may affect patient safety within ten business days. Learn what crimes an individual must report and the potential discipline that can come with it.
Massage Therapist Administrative Appeal and Hearing
Any licensee may request an appeal of an Arizona Board of Massage Therapy disciplinary action to an administrative law judge with the Arizona Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH). In some instances, a case is sent automatically to hearing. The administrative hearing is conducted by OAH before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). The hearing is not as formal as a trial, but is similar.
Each party presents evidence using documents or sworn testimony. They also give an opening and closing argument which should explain why the judge should rule one way or the other. A massage therapist’s attorney can cross examine witnesses and testify on his or her behalf. After the hearing, the ALJ reviews the transcripts, evidence and makes a recommendation. However, it’s ultimately the Board making the decision to either accept, reject or modify the ALJ’s decision. If an individual feels there has been a mistake they can request a rehearing.
Arizona Cosmetology Disciplinary Actions
Arizona Board of Massage Therapy disciplinary actions are given to massage therapists with a license or certification in Arizona. If the Board determines formal disciplinary action is necessary it will happen after the completion of an investigation. It’s the job of the Board to review any complaint alleging a violation of the Arizona laws and regulations. Thus, at an Arizona Board of Massage Therapy Meeting the Board will vote to determine the outcome of each investigation. The Board can vote on a non-disciplinary outcome or vote to offer the massage therapist formal discipline. Disciplinary actions can include:
- Dismissal
- Advisory Letter
- Non-Disciplinary Order for Continuing Education
- Probation
- Letter of Reprimand
- Decree of Censure
- Payment of Restitution
- Suspension
- Revocation
Speak With an Attorney
If you’re interested in setting up a consultation with our Arizona Board of Massage Therapy Attorney at Chelle Law or learning more about any of the services we provide to Arizona massage therapists we invite you to reach out to us today.