Florida Chiropractic Laws and Rules (FCLR) Practice Exam

Which of the following is considered a third-degree felony in Florida?

1. Practicing without a valid license

2. Practicing with a revoked license

3. Failing to maintain patient records

4. Charging for unperformed services

The correct answer is: Practicing with a revoked license

Practicing with a revoked license is categorized as a third-degree felony in Florida because it poses a significant threat to public safety and health. The revocation of a license typically indicates serious past misconduct or violations of laws and regulations governing professional conduct. Therefore, engaging in the practice of chiropractic after such a revocation not only undermines the integrity of the profession but also places patients at risk, justifying the classification of this offense as a felony. On the other hand, while practicing without a valid license, failing to maintain patient records, and charging for unperformed services are serious offenses, they are typically classified differently within Florida law. For example, practicing without a valid license may lead to penalties but does not carry the same weight as operating under a revoked license, which implies an explicit rejection of previously established licensing standards. Each of these infractions carries its own set of implications and may result in administrative actions or civil penalties, but practicing with a revoked license stands out due to the legal ramifications associated with previously losing the right to practice.