(Last Updated On: August 1, 2023)Last Updated on: 1st August 2023, 12:42 am
Our economy employs a variety of professionals who have professional licenses that are required for employment in various fields, including lawyers, stock brokers, doctors and other occupations. Many of these professional licenses require extensive training and education. When professionals are accused of unethical, illegal, or criminal violations, many are faced with potential revocation of their professional licenses. Revocation is significant for many reasons, including the loss of potential income, damage to your reputation, decrease in earning potential, and embarrassment. If you are facing possible revocation, suspension or other issues related to the status of your professional license, New York License Defense Lawyers can provide legal advice and representation to assist you in the process.
There are many professions that require licenses that are subject to discipline. Some examples include:
- Accountants and Certified Public Accountants (CPAs)
- Architects
- Engineers
- Dentists and Orthodontists
- Doctors
- Nurses
- Insurance agents and brokers
- Real estate agents
- Attorneys
- Teachers
When there is threat of loss of a professional license, even those that lack any merit, there are typically procedures that must be followed before the license can be terminated. Often there are disciplinary proceedings or other hearings wherein evidence is considered and arguments can be made. New York License Defense Lawyers can help ensure that the procedures are followed by the disciplinary entity and also ensure that you comply with all procedures and deadlines. An experienced attorney will also be able to present evidence in your defense and argue your position in any hearings that are held.
Some of the types of conduct that may result in challenges to the status of a professional license include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Criminal activities
- Excessive alcohol consumption on the job
- Use of illegal controlled substances
- Fraud
- Malpractice
- Theft
- Harassment
- Embezzlement
- Sexual misconduct
- False representations
- Negligent practice
- Insurance fraud
Professional licenses are required for many different types of professions and each case is unique. Each profession is subject to unique rules and circumstances. An experienced attorney will be familiar with your particular industry and the various nuances involved. It is important to have an attorney who is familiar with the particular industry and what it entails. An attorney who is knowledgeable about your profession and has experience defending those who faced similar license disciplinary action will be more efficient and aware of the available defenses.
Sometimes disciplinary action is requested by disgruntled individuals who lack a legitimate complaint. Even in cases that have an apparent lack of merit, it is important to make sure you have adequate representation to ensure that you do not waive any rights or suffer any unexpected consequences. An attorney will require the complaining individual to prove their allegations and present evidence to support their claim.
Anyone who anticipates that a claim may be made, or has received notice that a claim has been filed, should immediately contact a New York license defense lawyer for advice. A lawyer will be able to inform you about the process and can help you develop a defense strategy. Even those who do not anticipate any foreseeable claims can benefit from a consultation with a license defense lawyer. A lawyer can help you prepare for and protect against some of the common issues that arise in your particular occupation.
When a case proceeds to disciplinary review, you will have the opportunity to defend your conduct. Sometimes this requires the presentation of evidence and involvement of witnesses. A license defense lawyer will help you identify important evidence to present. A lawyer will also be able to identify, call and exam witnesses to support your defense and challenge the allegations.
Throughout the disciplinary process, a New York license defense lawyer will seek out different methods of resolution to prevent termination of the license. Depending on the circumstances, some alternative methods of resolution may include:
- Mediation
- Money settlement
- Payment of fines
- Suspension in lieu of termination
- Public reprimand
- Receipt of treatment
- Community service
An experienced lawyer will be familiar with the common types of resolution. If it appears that your case cannot be resolved without complete dismissal of the allegations, then a lawyer can draw upon their experience to advise you of what options are realistic.
The underlying concerns in most professional license cases is protecting one’s livelihood and avoiding damage to one’s reputation. New York license defense lawyers will keep these concerns in mind, as well as others applicable to each situation, and work diligently to achieve a fair result that addresses the main concerns of the case.
If the unfortunate result occurs that a license is terminated or you previously experienced significant discipline, a license defense lawyer can also help with seeking reinstatement of the license and removal of any applicable restrictions. Typically there are procedures for this to occur, and an experienced lawyer will be know what is needed to succeed in reinstating the validity of the professional license.
If you are facing the threat of professional discipline affecting your professional license, contact a New York defense lawyer as soon as possible to schedule a consultation.