Firefighters in Texas are governed by the Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP), which regulates licensure and investigates complaints filed against Texas Fire Safety Professionals. The TCFP has authority to take disciplinary action against a licensee, including license revocation or suspension.
If your license is in jeopardy, it is imperative that you seek representation from an experienced fire protection license defense lawyer.
How Complaints Against Texas Firefighters Are Handled
If you are licensed by the TCFP, you could face a career-threatening complaint due to allegations of violating the Commission Regulations. For example, the following types of alleged misconduct could give rise to a complaint:
- Inappropriate activity while on duty.
- Failure to follow safety protocols and procedures.
- Use of drugs or alcohol while on duty.
- Criminal activity.
- Abuse of sick leave, overtime, pensions and other benefits.
When the Commission receives a written complaint alleging a violating of its rules, “the commission shall have 30 days to initiate an investigation and report back to the complainant its progress.” 37 Tex. Admin. Code § 435.19. If an investigation is initiated, the compliance section will act on the complaint and guide the case to final disposition within 30 days.
When determining administrative penalties, or more severe penalties, the TCFP will consider various factors, including compliance history, seriousness of the violation, the safety threat to the public or fire personnel, any mitigating factors, and any other factors the Commission considers appropriate.
Our fire protection license defense attorneys have the experience and legal knowledge needed to defend licensed firefighters and fire inspectors subject to potential disciplinary action. Do not let a complaint end your career. Contact an experienced professional license defense attorney right away.
We will investigate your case, help you understand your legal options, and build a strong defense to protect your license. We are proud to serve Texans who put their lives on the line to fight fire. Contact us at (512) 476-5757 to schedule a case evaluation.
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