If you are facing criminal charges and you hold a professional license, that license may be at risk. In a court of law, you are presumed innocent until proven guilty; however, this may not be the case with the licensing board. Further, generally criminal convictions must be disclosed to receive or renew a professional license.
Good Moral Character
Many licensing boards, including the State Bar of Texas and the Texas State Board of Public Accountancy, require that an applicant be of good moral character. In determining whether one is of good moral character, the board may consider an applicant’s arrests, charges, or convictions. The determination is not strictly based on crimes an applicant was found guilty of, but even considers arrest and charges as part of determining good moral character.
When A Criminal Conviction Renders a License Applicant Unsuitable for the License
Each licensing board has their own rules and regulations regarding criminal charges and criminal convictions. Considerations include:
- Whether a criminal conviction renders an applicant unsuitable to be licensed, and
- Whether a criminal conviction warrants revocation or suspension of a previously granted license.
Depending on the licensing board, certain types of crimes present a bigger problem than others. For example, if your profession is in the financial industry a crime involving fraud is significantly more likely to affect the ability to obtain, retain, or renew a professional license than conviction of a minor traffic crime.
When Your Professional License is at Risk
If you have been charged with or convicted of a crime, it is critical that you know how this will affect your professional license. Our experienced license defense attorneys represent clients from a variety of professions and industries. We have in-depth knowledge of licensing board procedures and how they typically respond to criminal charges or convictions.
We offer a case evaluation to all potential clients. We offer honest answers and straightforward advice. Our dedicated attorneys will take the time to learn about the specifics of your circumstance. Contact us today or call (512) 476-5757. Come meet with us to learn about how we can help you with your licensing issue.
Call or text (512) 476-5757 or complete a Case Evaluation form
