What Are Some Consequences of Criminal Charges on Professional Licensing?

Blischak Law November 15, 2023 Personal injury

As a professional, maintaining your license is a vital part of your career. Without this licensing, you may be cut off from the career you have worked hard to keep, taking away your financial freedom and leaving you and your family struggling to make ends meet.

The consequences of criminal accusations on professional licensing can be devastating, so preparing a full criminal defense is crucial. If your future is on the line, be sure you understand the penalties you may face.

What Professional Licenses Can Be Affected?

Many professions require certain licenses to operate. These licenses show you are a professional in the field with the right educational credits, certificates, and training. Without your license, your career may be compromised. You may be unable to work for some time, and in some cases, you may even lose your job if your license is revoked entirely.

But what professional licenses are most frequently impacted by a criminal case? Below are just a few specific professionals affected by professional license penalties:

  • Medical professionals
  • Lawyers
  • Truck drivers
  • Accountants
  • Teachers

When Will Criminal Charges Impact My Professional Licensing?

Unfortunately, even minor infractions can impact your professional license, depending on the specifics of the charges and how strict the organizations in control of licensing are. For example, bar associations typically have stricter rules about conduct, meaning even a misdemeanor can damage your professional license.

Criminal charges specific to your field can also hurt your license. For example, if you are a truck driver and you are accused of driving under the influence, you may find yourself facing suspension or revocation of your commercial truck driver’s license. If you are worried that your license is in danger, our attorneys can determine what consequences you may face.

Conviction Reporting Requirements

If you are convicted, your employer may not be aware of the case. In some cases, you may not even face imprisonment, which can affect your ability to work. However, some professions do require reporting, and failing to report a conviction can lead to more severe penalties.

Some professions, such as those in the medical field, may even require regular updates to your criminal history. Ensuring you stay up to date with any convictions if you are unable to avoid a conviction may be vital to avoid issues like being barred from your professional field.

Expungement and Your Professional License

Expungement, if successful, wipes your criminal conviction from your criminal record. In many cases, you can go back to your life as though the conviction never happened. However, some professional organizations still require reporting of criminal convictions, even if your case is successfully expunged—and there is no guarantee yours will.

Because of this, our legal team focuses on a successful defense before you are ever convicted. While you may still see penalties for facing criminal charges, our team can help mitigate the damage that may be done by a conviction.

Need Help? Our Team Can Help Defend Your Case

When your professional license, finances, and freedom are on the line, acting now can help avoid a conviction that can leave you dealing with lasting consequences. Fortunately, our team at The Blischak Law Firm is here to help, guiding you through the legal process. We know how important protecting your professional license can be for your future, and we want to help you keep it.

If you are facing a potential criminal conviction and you need help, reach out for the tools and support a defense lawyer can provide. Our team is here for you when you call or fill out our online contact form.