§ 4-316. Commencement of proceedings

   (a) Commencement. -- On its own initiative or on a written complaint filed with the Board by any person, the Board may commence proceedings under § 4-315 of this subtitle.

(b) Complaint to be in writing. -- If a person who is not a member of the Board files a complaint, the complaint shall:

   (1) Be in writing;

   (2) Be verified by a person who is familiar with the alleged facts;

   (3) Request Board action; and

   (4) Be filed with the secretary of the Board.

(c) Duties of Board. --

   (1) The Board shall investigate each complaint filed with the Board if the complaint:

      (i) Alleges facts that are grounds for action under § 4-315 of this subtitle; and

      (ii) Meets the requirements of this section.

   (2) If the Board begins action on its own initiative or if after investigation it elects to substitute its own complaint for one filed by a person who is not a member of the Board, the Board shall prepare a written complaint.

(d) Mediation. -- If, after performing any preliminary investigation, the Board determines that an allegation involving fees for professional or ancillary services does not constitute grounds for discipline or other action, the Board may refer the allegation concerning a member of a professional society or association composed of providers of dental care to a committee of the Society for Mediation.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 32, § 14; 1981, ch. 8, § 2; ch. 126; 1990, ch. 6, § 11; 1992, ch. 564.