Plastic Surgery and Attorneys | S16 Ep71

A well-written contract can protect more than your practice—it can help prevent costly disputes before they begin. From employment agreements to workplace policies, legal considerations are an essential part of managing a plastic surgery practice. Understanding contractual obligations, anticipating potential disagreements, and knowing when to seek legal counsel can help surgeons protect their professional interests while building stronger working relationships. Host Diana Yoon-Schwartz, MD, welcomes James Nachbar, MD, JD, a plastic surgeon and licensed attorney practicing in Scottsdale, Arizona, for a discussion about the intersection of plastic surgery and the law. Drawing on his experience in private practice, legal education, and expert witness work, Dr. Nachbar explains how surgeons can approach employment contracts, noncompete provisions, compensation arrangements, and workplace policies. He also shares guidance on serving as an expert witness and emphasizes the importance of clear expectations, thoughtful agreements, and legal advice tailored to applicable state and local laws. Topics Discussed Pursuing legal education as a plastic surgeon Serving as an ethical and credible expert witness Reviewing physician employment contracts Understanding noncompete agreements Defining compensation, call coverage, and responsibilities Establishing employee handbooks and workplace policies Navigating employment laws and staff obligations Preventing contractual disputes and litigation Key Takeaways Seek appropriate legal counsel. Work with attorneys familiar with employment law and applicable local requirements. Clarify expectations early. Address compensation, responsibilities, and potential separation before signing agreements. Understand restrictive clauses. Evaluate noncompete provisions and their potential career implications. Document workplace policies. Clear guidelines help establish consistent expectations for employees. Maintain professional integrity. Expert witnesses should offer impartial opinions within their areas of expertise. Prevent disputes proactively. Thoughtful contracts and open communication can reduce misunderstandings and legal exposure. Bonus Resources ASPS Expert Witness Guidelines and Ethical Standards – Professional guidance referenced during the discussion for surgeons considering expert witness work. About Enhance Your Practice Enhance Your Practice is the official practice management podcast from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), featuring conversations with leaders in plastic surgery on practice management, leadership, innovation, and professional development. Each episode delivers practical insights to help plastic surgeons build successful practices and thrive throughout their careers. Explore more educational resources from ASPS at plasticsurgery.org.