What is the first step the Board should take when illegal practice is identified?

When illegal practice is identified, the first step the Board should take is to apply for a cease and desist order. This action is a formal legal request that directs the individual or entity engaged in the illegal practice to immediately stop those activities. The rationale behind this choice lies in the need for prompt protection of the public and the integrity of the profession. A cease and desist order serves as an official notice that the activities being conducted are not legally sanctioned and must be halted to prevent potential harm to consumers or the reputation of the profession.

This proactive step is often necessary to stop illegal practices quickly before they can cause further damage or confusion. While other options, such as filing a lawsuit or sending a warning letter, might come into play later in the process, applying for a cease and desist order is primarily focused on stopping the illegal conduct in real-time to safeguard the community and uphold regulatory standards. Conducting an audit, while useful in assessing compliance, would generally follow after immediate intervention actions like a cease and desist order have been initiated.