Program Overview

Introduction to the Legal Nurse Consultant Certificate Program

The Legal Nurse Consultant Certificate Program is an eight-week course designed to introduce participants to the basic concepts of Legal Nurse Consulting. This comprehensive program covers terminology common to litigation, participation in trials and hearings, elements of case review and triage, legal research methods, report writing and documentation, and the legal nurse consultant's role in various settings.

About Legal Nurse Consultants

Legal Nurse Consultants play a crucial role in the legal system, providing expert advice and guidance on medical-related legal issues. This program will introduce participants to the foundational concepts of Legal Nurse Consulting, including:

• Terminology common to litigation
• Participation in trials and hearings
• Elements of case review and triage
• Legal research methods
• Report writing and documentation
• The legal nurse consultant's role in various settings

Program Overview

The program is designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of Legal Nurse Consulting. Additional topics include starting an independent consulting practice or working within an established business.

Hands-On Learning Opportunities

Participants will have the opportunity to engage in hands-on learning activities, including:

• Conducting an interview with a legal professional (e.g., LNC, attorney, risk manager, or adjuster) and preparing a presentation
• Researching a legal issue and presenting findings

Certification and Careers

Graduates of the program may choose to sit for the Legal Nurse Consultant Certified (LNCC) exam, a separate certification test for experienced registered nurses. However, the LNCC exam is not required to practice as a legal nurse consultant. Sample career paths for Legal Nurse Consultants include:

• In-house nurse consultant in law firms or insurance companies
• Independent legal nurse consultant (LNC)
• Life Care Planner
• Medical Analyst
• Medical Investigator in public service

Program Format and Features

The program is offered 100% online, with asynchronous classes and no live sessions. Lectures are available on-demand for convenience. Interactive opportunities include three optional live web conferences during the semester, with one-on-one web meetings with the instructor available for those with time-zone conflicts.

Eligibility Requirements

The program is open to Registered Nurses (RNs) with at least three years of clinical nursing experience. Application requirements include:

• A completed application form
• A copy of the RN license
• Proof of three or more years of clinical nursing experience (e.g., employer verification letter)

Program Details

The program is offered twice per year, in April and October. Tuition is $1,000, with a 10% discount available for three or more colleagues from the same organization. Program graduates receive a certificate of completion and 40 continuing education credit hours.

Application Process

Application deadlines are April 6 for the April program and October 15 for the October program. The application process includes submitting the application with all required documents, with notification of the decision via email. Accepted applicants will receive registration and payment instructions, with payment due at least one week before classes begin.

Refund and Cancellation Policy

To cancel registration, email at least 48 hours before the course begins. Full refunds (minus a $20 processing fee) are available for timely cancellations. Refunds are not available after the first week of classes. Florida Atlantic University reserves the right to cancel or reschedule courses due to low enrollment or unforeseen circumstances, with a full refund processed within 15 business days in such cases.

Faculty and Staff

The program is led by experienced faculty and staff, including:

• Anita N. Blowers, Ph.D., Director of Legal Studies
• Alejandra Quintero, Program Coordinator
• Genifer Johnson, DHA, MSN, RN, professional registered nurse and legal nurse consultant