What kind of legal issues can affect your professional license?

Most licensing boards have rules that allow for the investigation of convictions such as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

However, there are various issues, both criminal and non-criminal, which could affect the status of your professional license in the state of Florida.

Why your actions matter

Professional licensing boards will investigate issues that affect the status of a member. For example, your board could penalize you for a DUI or drug conviction because this kind of crime suggests substance abuse. A dependence problem could affect your judgment and your competence in dealing with the public. Consequently, an investigation will take place to determine whether the board can still consider you trustworthy. Licensing boards for certain professions maintain higher standards, especially those that involve healthcare or driving or that require elevated levels of trust, such as psychologists, counselors or social workers.

Criminal and non-criminal issues

Felony convictions will often result in a licensing board taking disciplinary action. In addition to DUI convictions, examples include convictions for fraud, theft, assault or possession of illegal drugs. Non-criminal legal issues that might compromise your standing as a professional could include unpaid debts, a bankruptcy or a repossession matter.

The Florida statute

If you have a professional license obtained through the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), your license is subject to disciplinary guidelines established under Florida Statute 455.2273. The statute recognizes differences between minor violations and more serious issues that “endanger the public health, safety, or welfare.” The disciplinary guidelines referenced in this statute will help a board determine the effect your actions will have on the status of your professional license.