You may have undergone years of training to earn your Texas license, but now your career is in jeopardy. It’s the letter no licensed professional wants to receive: a notice from the board informing you of a complaint against your license. This is a dangerous situation, so taking swift legal action is important.
At Bertolino LLP, we handle a wide range of professional license defense cases and take allegations against our clients seriously. We understand the intricacies of responding to investigation letters, communicating with board personnel, gathering evidence, meeting deadlines, and representing you in proceedings.
Please don’t underestimate the seriousness of a complaint; instead, rely on our Texas professional license defense lawyer to protect your future.
What does a Professional License Defense Lawyer Do?
Your professional license defense lawyer will guide you through each stage of the board’s case against you. Representation from an experienced attorney is invaluable during the notification response, investigation, initial hearings and beyond.
A professional licensing defense attorney helps in the following ways:
- Protect your rights and keep the board or agency from taking advantage of you
- Guide you through the investigation process
- Craft an appropriate initial response to the allegations against you
- Plan a defense strategy customized to the unique circumstances of your case and your individual goals
- Negotiate the terms of the informal resolution to settle the case before the hearing (when applicable)
- Represent you at hearings and other legal proceedings before the administrative law judge
- Prepare for your appearances before your licensing board by rehearsing with you and advising you on what to say during any administrative hearings
- Explain the sanctions and penalties the board could pursue and which disciplinary action they are likely to impose based on the facts of your case
By walking you through each step, a professional license defense lawyer can help alleviate some of the anxiety and stress of a board complaint and subsequent investigation.
You don’t have to face the board alone! A team member is ready to listen to your side of the story, help you build a strong defense, and guide you through your next steps.
Reasons to Hire an Attorney As Soon as You Receive a Complaint Notification
From protecting your legal rights and crafting an effective defense strategy to navigating complex legal procedures, an experienced attorney can provide invaluable guidance and representation throughout the legal process.
Let’s dive into the main reasons to hire a lawyer after receiving notice of a formal complaint:
The Licensing Board Is Not on Your Side
All Texas licensing boards function to serve the public. This means your licensing board is not looking out for you.
Once a formal complaint has been made against you, the licensing board is investigating you on the other party’s behalf. Their purpose is to protect the public, not to defend you or protect you.
That’s why it’s up to you to defend yourself against the allegations of professional misconduct or other malfeasance. An experienced professional license defense attorney can help you do just that.
Your Livelihood Is at Stake
Even a single complaint against you with the licensing board can put you at risk of temporary license suspension or revocation.
A license suspension lasts for a specified amount of time during which you cannot practice. However, a license revocation means the board takes your license away. Unless you apply for and obtain reinstatement of your license, you are no longer allowed to practice. If your license is suspended or revoked, you will not be allowed to perform your job, which could be a financial disaster.
Not only will you miss out on income for a time, but you could also lose clients, customers, or patients, depending on your occupation.
You Need a Strong Defense, and Your Initial Response Is Important
Building a solid defense, beginning with your initial response to the board’s notice, will help you achieve the most favorable outcome possible.
Please don’t wait until a formal hearing has been scheduled with the Texas State Office of Administrative Hearing (SOAH) before contacting an attorney. It’s best to get in front of the investigation so your attorney can defend you immediately, laying the foundation for a positive outcome in your case.
Waiting can be costly since appealing an unfavorable ruling is more difficult than fighting the allegations from day one.
An Attorney Will Serve As Your Legal Advocate at Every Stage of Your Case
The board has their staff attorneys presenting their side and is prepared to prosecute you. That’s why choosing an attorney well-versed in administrative law and licensing board matters is crucial.
Why Can’t I Represent Myself?
When facing a complaint against your professional license, it may be tempting to try to defend yourself. However, it is important to understand that handling complex legalities alone can be risky.
Hiring an experienced license defense attorney provides numerous benefits and significantly increases your chances of a favorable outcome.
One of the key advantages of working with a seasoned attorney is their extensive experience in dealing with state licensing agencies, the courts, administrative law judges and the evidence and legal arguments needed to overcome your complaint. Our lawyers deeply understand the legal system and know the best tactics and strategies in license defense cases.
This expertise allows them to negotiate on your behalf, often securing better terms for your case and striving for shorter probationary periods when possible.
Navigating the disciplinary process can be overwhelming and confusing, especially if you are unfamiliar with the intricacies of administrative law. Hiring a license defense attorney from our firm means receiving comprehensive legal representation.
Click to contact our professional license defense lawyers today
Bertolino LLP Understands the Legal Issues Licensed Professionals Can Face
Bertolino LLP represents licensed professionals across Texas. Our professional license defense attorneys have extensive experience dealing with the regulatory agencies and administrative law judges. We’ll work to negotiate better terms for your case and get suspensions or probationary periods shortened whenever possible.
Whether you are a medical professional, a real estate agent, or licensed in any other vocation, if your professional license is at risk, we are here to defend it. From initial responses to the final appeal, we will guide you every step of the way.
Call or contact us online today to schedule a free consultation.
Call or text (512) 476-5757 or complete a Case Evaluation form
