Have you ever had trouble with your work-related license, and you needed assistance? If so, you may have needed the counsel of an experienced, professional license defense lawyer. So, what is a professional license defense lawyer, and what do they do?
A professional license defense attorney deals with issues related to licensure, administrative law, ethics concerns, grievance complaints, and all other professional licensing problems.
This article will discuss a professional license defense attorney’s duty, tips to choosing the right one, and other facts you need to know about these lawyers.
What Does a Professional License Defense Lawyer?
Over 43 million people in the U.S have professional licenses. These professionals include real estate agents, financial services representatives, healthcare professionals, and even lawyers. Licenses are different from certificates, and they are legally required by law for individuals in professions that require licensing.
Licenses act as an added layer of protection or red tape for these professionals. For this reason, license holders have to deal directly with the governmental licensing agencies when there is trouble with their licenses.
A professional licensing lawyer practices administrative law. This is the category of law that handles the operation and regulation of procedures in governmental agencies. As job-related licenses are given and overseen by the various governmental boards, a professional licensing lawyer is an administrative law attorney whose main focus is occupational licensing matters.
A professional license defense lawyer’s duties rotate around protecting other professionals’ right to work and their occupational licenses. The issuing governmental regulatory board oversees the distribution and approval of licenses and disciplinary actions in case of violations.
Disciplinary action is taken against licenses accused of criminal action and unethical behavior. Licensing boards can also take disciplinary action against people who have been charged with professional misconduct. Such disciplinary actions may include license suspension or permanent revocation.
The licensing defense lawyer steps in during such issues and represents the person holding the license. The three key focus areas in such cases are:
1. License Application Appeals
This means defending the license holder when their license has been denied. Most people are scared of submitting their licensure applications due to their past criminal history. If you are in such a situation, a professional licensing defense attorney can be of great assistance.
It’s common for license applications to be turned down due to past criminal history. While this could affect your professional life, a licensed defense attorney will help you put the best defense together. This will give you a fighting chance to earn the license.
2. A Petition for Reinstatement
Different boards have different rules regarding license petitioning. Most allow only one chance to reverse their decision after you lose your license to practice.
With everything you have worked so hard for on the line, you may feel helpless and sad. However, a licensed defense lawyer can help you build your case to get you reinstated.
Every licensing case is different and has a unique set of operational challenges and procedures. Your defense licensing lawyer will equip you with the advice and knowledge you need to fight for your license.
3. Discipline Defense
If you already have a professional license, you may be at risk of losing it. Discipline defense means defending licenses that are facing disciplinary issues or revocation. Some potential revocation causes include active investigations, filled accusations, and the recent conviction of a crime.
Fortunately, professional license defense attorneys have the experience and knowledge to handle such cases successfully.
Tips for Choosing the Right Professional License Defense Lawyer
Choosing the right professional license defense lawyer can be a daunting task. You’re probably scared that you’re about to lose or have already lost your license. You may also be worried about your career coming to an end.
However, don’t make the mistake of settling for the first attorney you meet. Below are five essential tips to help you choose the right lawyer:
1. Go for an Experienced Attorney
Your attorney should have the experience to handle your case. Don’t hire an attorney specializing in chiropractic licenses while facing a real estate license suspension. Find one that knows the inside and out of real estate law.
2. Your Attorney Should Meet All Your Legal Needs
Ensure you go for an attorney that makes you comfortable to open up to them. You have to be straightforward and honest about your situation.
You should also be comfortable with the defense strategy created by your attorney. Listen to your heart and mind when selecting an attorney to represent you.
3. Check the Attorney’s Reputation
A highly professional attorney will have a good reputation. Some attorneys are known for losing cases. Ensure you settle for one who is effective with their clients and has a higher winning rate.
Without a licensing defense attorney, you are at higher risk of losing your case. That’s because you may not understand the intricate details about the laws governing your industry’s licensing laws. Ensure you settle for an attorney who is good at what they do.
4. Ask for Referrals
The best way to find the right licensing attorney is by asking colleagues and other peers in your field for referrals. They might know professional and experienced lawyers that may help you get your license back.
5. Gauge Their Customer Service
Some licensing attorneys work harder than their colleagues. You will want your case to be handled by a lawyer who will work twice as hard to win your case. Your attorney should also have your best interest at heart.
No matter how experienced an attorney is, they may not be the right fit if they don’t have a genuine interest in your case.
Do You Need a Professional License Defense Lawyer?
Is your license at risk of cancellation or suspension? Are you facing potential disciplinary action from your licensing board? Use the tips above to hire the right professional license defense lawyer to assist you with your case.
Don’t fight your case alone; your attorney has the knowledge and experience to help get your license back. For more informative tips, check out other posts on our website.
