Illinois Statutes Chapter 225. Professions,Occupations and Business Operations § 410/4-10. Refusal, suspension and revocation of licenses; investigations and hearing

§ 4-10. Refusal, suspension and revocation of licenses; investigations and hearing. The Department may upon its own motion and shall, upon the verified complaint in writing of any person setting forth the facts which if proven would constitute grounds for disciplinary action as set forth in Section 4-7, investigate the actions of any person holding or claiming to hold a license. The Department shall, at least 30 days prior to the date set for the hearing, notify in writing the applicant or the holder of that license of any charges made and shall afford the accused person an opportunity to be heard in person or by counsel in reference thereto. The Department shall direct the applicant or licensee to file a written answer to the Board under oath within 20 days after the service of the notice and inform the applicant or licensee that failure to file an answer will result in default being taken against the applicant or licensee and that the license may be suspended, revoked, placed on probationary status, or other disciplinary action may be taken, including limiting the scope, nature or extent of practice, as the Secretary may deem proper. The written notice may be served by the delivery of the notice personally to the accused person, or by mailing the notice by registered or certified mail to the address of record. In case the person fails to file an answer after receiving notice, his or her license or certificate may, in the discretion of the Department be suspended, revoked, or placed on probationary status, or the Department, may take whatever disciplinary action deemed proper, including limiting the scope, nature, or extent of the person's practice or the imposition of a fine, without a hearing, if the act or acts charged constitute sufficient grounds for such action under this Act. At the time and place fixed in the notice, the Board shall proceed to hearing of the charges and the accused person shall be accorded ample opportunity to present in person or by counsel, any statements, testimony, evidence and arguments as may be pertinent to the charges or their defense. The Board may continue a hearing from time to time.