As a nurse practitioner in California, your role places you at the crossroads of advanced clinical responsibility and patient trust. With prescriptive authority, independent practice in certain settings, and access to sensitive patient data, you are held to high legal and ethical standards. Unfortunately, these responsibilities can also make you vulnerable to criminal allegations, ranging from prescription fraud to abuse accusations. If you are under investigation or facing criminal charges, it is critical to understand your rights and seek legal counsel immediately. Let’s look at some common California criminal offenses that can affect nurse practitioners, along with possible legal defense strategies.
Prescription Fraud and Controlled Substance Violations
Nurse practitioners in California are authorized to prescribe controlled substances under a supervising physician’s protocol. However, any misuse of that authority can lead to felony charges.