Experienced representation at SOAH and other administrative hearings for healthcare professionals facing disciplinary actions in Texas.
When a Texas licensing board — such as the Texas Medical Board, Board of Nursing, or State Board of Dental Examiners — pursues formal disciplinary action against a healthcare professional, the case is typically referred to the State Office of Administrative Hearings (SOAH) for a contested case hearing. Administrative hearings are the formal legal proceedings where the board presents its case against you and you have the opportunity to defend yourself before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). These hearings follow rules of evidence and procedure similar to — but distinct from — civil court proceedings. The outcome of a SOAH hearing can determine whether you keep your license, face restrictions, or have your license suspended or revoked. Victoria Soto has represented healthcare professionals in administrative hearings throughout Texas for over 20 years, and understands the procedural nuances, evidentiary standards, and strategies that lead to successful outcomes.
You need experienced hearing representation if your licensing board has filed formal charges or a notice of hearing, informal settlement negotiations with the board have failed to reach an acceptable resolution, you have been offered an agreed order with terms you find too restrictive, your case involves complex clinical issues that require expert testimony, or you are facing potential license revocation or lengthy suspension.
Full representation at contested case hearings before the State Office of Administrative Hearings, including pre-hearing motions, discovery, witness preparation, and trial advocacy.
Strategic representation at informal settlement conferences where many cases are resolved without proceeding to formal hearing.
Representation in appeals of adverse SOAH decisions to the licensing board and, when necessary, to state district court.
Urgent representation when a board seeks temporary or emergency suspension of your license pending investigation.
You have the legal right to represent yourself at a SOAH hearing. However, doing so is strongly discouraged. The board will be represented by experienced attorneys from the Texas Attorney General's office or its own legal staff. They will present witnesses, introduce evidence, and make legal arguments designed to support disciplinary action against you. Without experienced legal representation, you are at a severe disadvantage. An administrative hearing attorney knows how to challenge the board's evidence, cross-examine witnesses, present expert testimony on your behalf, raise procedural objections, and make legal arguments that protect your rights.
The outcome of an administrative hearing directly determines the fate of your license. This is not a proceeding where you should try to save money by representing yourself. The cost of losing your license far exceeds the cost of experienced legal representation.
Your license is on the line. Contact V. Soto Medical Law for experienced administrative hearing representation that fights for the best possible outcome.