Disciplinary Process, Complaints, and Sanctions
Complaint to final order
A complaint is filed with BPL. Staff screen and investigate; if the evidence supports probable cause, the department files an administrative complaint. The case is heard by an administrative law judge in the Michigan Administrative Hearing System. The ALJ issues a proposal for decision; the Board reviews the record and may adopt, modify, or reject it. The final order imposes sanctions and is subject to appeal.
Sanctions
Available sanctions include reprimand, probation with conditions, suspension, revocation, restitution, fines, and continuing education. A summary suspension may be ordered when there is an imminent danger to the public. Consent orders and settlements are common; they are public records.
Worked example
A patient complains that a hygienist performed scaling without a current dentist's order. BPL investigates the records and interviews the hygienist. If probable cause is found, an administrative complaint issues. The hygienist may negotiate a consent order with probation and CE rather than litigate. The license status is updated in the public license lookup.
Traps
Do not ignore correspondence from BPL; failure to respond can lead to a default order. Do not continue practicing during a suspension. Do not assume complaints are confidential; final actions are published. Do not rely on the employer's lawyer if your license is at risk.