If You’re Facing a Board Complaint Against Your Massachusetts Social Work License: LICSW, LCSW, LSW, LSWA…Read This.

If you’ve passed the ASWB exam. Or, if you’ve worked as a social worker “in Massachusetts for many years and understand firsthand how grueling the education, licensing, and day-to-day practice can be…you know that social work is not just a job, it’s a calling, and the work that you do in hospitals, schools, clinics, agencies, and communities can be both deeply rewarding and incredibly challenging.

That’s why I can only imagine how terrifying it must be to face the possibility of losing your social work license, the very thing you’ve worked so hard to earn. If this is your situation, please keep reading.

Massachusetts Law and Regulations Affecting Social Workers

Massachusetts has codified law, G.L. c. 112, §130–137, which governs licensed social workers, and these laws are enforced by the Board of Registration of Social Workers. The regulations, found at 258 CMR, include the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice that social workers in Massachusetts must follow.

Choose a Lawyer Who Knows Something about Social Workers in Massachusetts

As an experienced Massachusetts litigation attorney practicing in the social work and healthcare sectors, I am very familiar with these laws and how the Board handles complaints. Most complaints involve an alleged violation of either the Massachusetts General Laws or the Board’s Code of Regulations. When a complaint is filed, the Board typically sends a letter to the social workers notifying them of the complaint and requesting a written response. That letter will come from the Board investigator of the Division of Professional Licensure.

This stage—right after receiving the complaint—is one of the most critical points in the entire process.

What to do, What not to do Upon Receipt of a Complaint as a Social Worker

Often, a social worker’s first instinct is to contact the investigator directly and try to explain the situation, assuming that a professional, reasonable conversation will clear things up. No lawyer worth their salt would advise you to do this. I strongly advise all my clients against speaking to the Board or its investigators before speaking with a lawyer who is familiar with licensure defense. There is simply too much at risk.

Also, you must respond within the timeframe the Board gives you. Failing to do so can result in additional discipline or even default judgments against you. And remember everything you say in your written response will be on the record and can be used against you later.

I have helped many professionals in Massachusetts respond to complaints filed against their licenses, whether that be LICSW, LCSW, LSW, LSWA. I can help you craft a clear, well-reasoned, and legally appropriate response—one that protects your rights and avoids common pitfalls, like offering too much detail or inadvertently admitting to a violation.

What kinds of complaints do social workers in Massachusetts typically face?

• Alleged boundary violations (including inappropriate relationships with clients)
• Breaches of confidentiality
• Documentation errors or fraud
• Substance use issues that may affect professional performance
• Misrepresentation of credentials
• Alleged unethical conduct under the NASW Code of Ethics
• Criminal charges or other misconduct outside of work that the Board believes reflects on your fitness to practice

As someone who has worked in the healthcare field, I know the pressure that social workers in Massachusetts face every day—whether in a high-volume clinic, a child welfare office, or a mental health setting. The emotional toll, administrative demands, and complex client issues can be overwhelming. My insight as a healthcare professional (I am a registered nurse in Massachusetts) allows me to better understand the context of your case and advocate for you effectively.

I can represent you throughout the entire complaint process, including preparing your response, communicating with the Board on your behalf, and appearing at a Board hearing if necessary. As with any legal hearing, preparation is absolutely essential. I’ll work with you to gather necessary records, documentation, letters of support, or even expert witnesses who can provide critical testimony on your behalf.

Not all complaints lead to disciplinary action. Some complaints are dismissed if the facts or evidence are weak, or if your response is strong and well-documented. I’ve had numerous cases where the complaint was ultimately dropped after a thorough response was submitted.

What Are My Options as a Social Worker Facing a Complaint?

You’re generally facing one of three possible outcomes:

1. Disciplinary hearing – You’ll have a formal opportunity to defend yourself. Penalties can range from a reprimand to suspension or even permanent revocation of your license.
2. Settlement – In some cases, it may be possible to negotiate a resolution that satisfies the Board, such as attending continuing education, therapy, or supervision.
3. Dismissal – This is the best possible outcome. If your lawyer can provide a strong written response and supportive evidence, the complaint may be dismissed without a hearing.

A Word of Caution

I often use this analogy: if a detective came to your house asking questions about a possible crime, you wouldn’t assume they were just being friendly. You’d be cautious. You’d call a lawyer. The same applies here. A Board investigator might seem friendly or understanding—but their job is to investigate, not defend you. Anything you say to them can hurt your case.

What Should I Do If I’ve Had a Complaint Filed Against Me?

If you’ve received a complaint against your social work license in Massachusetts, contact my office right away. The consultation is free. I will listen to the details of your case and offer immediate guidance on your next steps. Don’t wait until it’s too late or assume the complaint will go away. The Board gives a social worker a limited time to respond. You want to respond with a carefully crafted response as soon as possible. With the right legal strategy, it’s possible to resolve these cases without lasting damage to your career or reputation.

Why Choose a Former Healthcare Professional Who is a Lawyer to Represent You?

As a former registered nurse in Massachusetts, I know what it’s like to serve clients with impossible needs, juggle high caseloads, and navigate the bureaucratic tangle that is our profession. I’ve also learned the legal system inside and out. This combination of legal knowledge and professional empathy allows me to defend your license with both insight and strategy.

Don’t risk your career. If you’re a social worker in Massachusetts facing a complaint, contact me today for a confidential consultation.

DISCLAIMER: The information provided in the pages and posts of this website are for general informational purposes only. The information presented on this site is not legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is formed by the use of this site.