Defend Your Healthcare License

The Minnesota Board of Nursing exists to protect the public from unsafe and unethical nursing practices, and it relies on people who become aware of problems with a nurse’s actions to report them. Anyone can file a complaint against a nurse with the Minnesota Board of Nursing, such as a patient or patient’s family, the nurse’s supervisor or coworker, or any person with knowledge they believe the Board should learn about.

No one understands the importance of oversight and accountability more than nurses; the health, safety, and well-being of our patients is paramount. In many ways, nursing isn’t just what we do; it’s who we are. That’s why receiving notice that someone has filed a complaint against you with the Board of Nursing is such a painful blow; it can feel like not only your work, but your character, is being questioned.

Your first impulse may be to tell your side of the story. But before you tell it to the board, tell your story to an attorney who knows what it means to be a nurse—and knows how to advise nurses facing a challenge.

The Minnesota Board of Nursing exists to protect the public from unsafe and unethical nursing practices, and it relies on people who become aware of problems with a nurse’s actions to report them. Anyone can file a complaint against a nurse with the Minnesota Board of Nursing, such as a patient or patient’s family, the nurse’s supervisor or coworker, or any person with knowledge they believe the Board should learn about.

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We Defend Health Care Professionals

Don't Trust The Board To Have Your Best Interests. We Will Defend Your License

Jackie L. Russell - Founder

JD, RN, LL.M.

A Law Firm Who Cares About Your License

Attorney Jackie L. Russell’s background uniquely qualifies her to help nurses facing a complaint to the Minnesota Board of Nursing. She has worked as a registered nurse in an emergency department and on a cardiac step-down floor, and as a charge nurse at a Level 2 trauma center. She understands the pressures nurses face on a daily basis, and her understanding of these issues extends beyond her bedside experience.

Jackie is also an attorney who worked as a Nurse Practice Specialist and later as in-house General Counsel at the Minnesota Nurses Association (MNA) for six years; that organization represents the interests of over 22,000 Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, and North Dakota nurses. In her role as Nurse Practice Specialist, Jackie regularly advised and empowered nurses to resolve concerns over practice issues, preventing potential complaints to the Board of Nursing.

Jackie’s insight into the nursing profession, the laws and regulations governing it, and the disciplinary system puts her in the best position to advise and advocate for you when you are facing a complaint.

Member of:

Practice Areas

Licensing & Administrative Law

We represent nurses before the Minnesota Board of Nursing.

How Jackie Russell Helps You

How Jackie Russell Can Help if Your Nursing License Is At Risk

What should I do if I receive a letter from the Licensing Board or the Attorney General?

When you get a letter notifying you of a complaint or investigation, your first instinct might be to share everything in hopes of clearing up what you believe is a misunderstanding. But without an understanding of licensing regulations, doing so without legal representation may hurt your case. What many licensed professionals don’t realize is that anything you put in writing can potentially be used against you later. It’s important to understand that the Minnesota Board of Nursing's primary mission is to protect the public—not to defend you or your license. My firm carefully reviews your situation, gathers relevant evidence, and assists you in providing a professional response.

What should I do if I have been called before the Minnesota Board of Nursing?

Being asked to appear in person before the Licensing Board can feel overwhelming, but it’s important to stay calm and focused. This meeting is a critical chance to address the Board’s concerns directly and potentially prevent further action. It’s not something you should face alone. Our role is to ensure you’re fully prepared—helping you understand what to expect, how to respond to questions with clarity and confidence, and how to present yourself in the most favorable light. We’ll be by your side at the appearance, offering guidance and support throughout the entire process. If you’re facing a formal complaint, emergency suspension, or another type of Board hearing, scroll down to see how we can assist you at that stage too.

How Jackie Russell Can Protect Your Interests at Hearings Before the Nursing Board

Most of our clients are hardworking professionals that never thought they’d get in trouble before the Board. Yet it happens. We will defend your license and protect your career.

What should I do when I receive a hearing notice regarding a complaint filed against your license?

At this stage of the process the State is actively building its case, alleging that you’ve violated licensing laws. With so much at stake, it’s critical that you do not give up your right to legal representation. My firm can help you navigate complex legal procedures.

How Jackie Russell Can Protect Your Interests at Hearings Before the Nursing Board

What types of disciplinary actions can the Minnesota Board of Nursing impose?

The Board has the authority to impose various disciplinary actions, depending on the severity of the violation. The most common include:

  • Reprimand

  • Conditions

  • Limitations

  • Suspension

  • Revocation

  • Stipulation to Cease Practicing

    Non-Disciplinary:

  • Agreement for Corrective Action

    The specific action taken depends on the nature and circumstances of the violation. ​

How long does the Board of Nursing's investigation process take?

The duration of an investigation can vary based on the complexity of the case and the Board's caseload. Some investigations may be resolved relatively quickly, while others can take several months or longer. It's important to respond promptly to any inquiries and provide all requested information to facilitate a timely resolution. An attorney experienced in nursing license defense can help navigate the process and potentially expedite the proceedings.

If you're facing a complaint or disciplinary action, seeking legal counsel experienced in Minnesota nursing regulations is highly recommended to protect your rights and professional standing.​

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