The Arizona State Board of Nursing (AZBN) takes any criminal matter seriously, even if it hasn’t resulted in a conviction. That’s because the Board’s mission is to protect public safety and maintain trust in the nursing profession. Understanding your obligations—and how to handle the situation—can make a major difference in protecting your license and career.
At Arizona Law Group, we help nurses across the state navigate these difficult moments. Our team works to ensure you meet your legal reporting requirements, avoid unnecessary penalties, and protect your future in nursing.
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Mandatory Self-Reporting Requirements
Arizona law requires nurses to report certain criminal charges to the Board. Under A.A.C. R4-19-403(B), nurses must notify the Arizona State Board of Nursing within 10 business days of being charged with or convicted of an offense that could affect their ability to practice safely.
In addition, A.R.S. § 32-3208 makes this reporting requirement mandatory for all licensed healthcare professionals in the state. This statute requires nurses and other health workers to report qualifying criminal charges to their licensing boards within ten working days after the charge is filed. Importantly, the duty to report applies even when the conduct did not directly impact patient safety. Failing to self-report can be considered unprofessional conduct, leading to additional disciplinary action from the Board.
This rule covers a wide range of situations, including:
- DUI and other alcohol-related offenses.
- Drug possession or diversion charges.
- Theft or fraud.
- Assault or domestic violence.
- Any felony or offense involving moral turpitude.
According to the Arizona State Board of Nursing, all felony charges must be reported within ten working days after the charge is filed.
How the Board Might Find Out Even Without Self-Reporting
Even if a nurse doesn’t self-report, there are several ways the Board can still learn about an arrest. These include:
1. Fingerprint clearance monitoring: Many nurses in Arizona must maintain a valid fingerprint clearance card through the Department of Public Safety (DPS). When DPS receives notice of an arrest, it often triggers an automatic alert to the Board.
2. Criminal background checks: The Board regularly conducts background checks as part of ongoing license monitoring and renewal. Any new charges will appear in those reports.
3. Public court records: Arizona’s criminal and municipal court records are publicly accessible online. Investigators, employers, or even the public can easily view arrest details.
4. Employer reports: Healthcare employers may have internal policies—or even legal duties—that require them to notify the Board if a nurse is arrested or charged with a crime.
Because of these overlapping systems, it’s rare for an arrest to remain unnoticed. Relying on silence or hoping the Board won’t find out often results in even greater scrutiny once the information surfaces.
At Arizona Law Group, we are committed to defending Arizona’s professionals against license threats that can derail careers and reputations. Whether you’re a healthcare provider, real estate agent, or financial professional, our experienced attorneys offer strategic, confidential, and results-driven representation. We believe every client deserves the highest standard of legal advocacy, so we take a client-focused approach to every case, navigating complex board investigations with precision and working relentlessly to protect your license, livelihood, and future.
Scott David Stewart
Potential Consequences of the Board Learning About Your Arrest
Once the Board becomes aware of an arrest, it will assess whether the incident violates the Arizona Nurse Practice Act or raises concerns about your ability to provide safe and ethical care. The Nurse Practice Act is designed to protect public health and safety by setting minimum standards for licensure and professional conduct in Arizona. It defines the qualifications and scope of practice for nurses and gives the Board authority to investigate and discipline those whose actions may violate those standards.
Depending on the findings, possible outcomes include:
- No action: If the offense is minor or unrelated to nursing duties.
- Letter of concern: A non-disciplinary notice placed in your file for future reference.
- Administrative penalties: Such as fines, continuing education, or ethics coursework.
- Probation or monitoring: Conditions like workplace supervision, drug testing, or treatment programs.
- Suspension or revocation: In severe cases, especially if patient safety is at risk or the conduct involves dishonesty or substance abuse.
The Board’s approach depends on several factors, including the seriousness of the charge, whether it occurred on or off duty, and how you respond once the issue arises. Even when charges are dropped or reduced, the Board can still impose discipline if it believes the underlying behavior reflects poorly on professional judgment.
Why Early Legal Help Is Critical
Facing an arrest as a nurse is deeply stressful, but it doesn’t have to end your career. At Arizona Law Group, we represent nurses throughout Arizona who are dealing with criminal charges, Board investigations, or disciplinary actions. Our team understands what’s at stake—and we’re here to help you protect what you’ve worked so hard to achieve. Call us today at 602-562-5000 to schedule a confidential consultation.
