Losing Professional Licenses Due to Fraud Offenses in Texas

A fraud conviction in Texas doesn't just carry criminal penalties—it can also jeopardize your professional license, threatening your livelihood and future career prospects. Whether you're a healthcare provider, accountant, engineer, or hold another licensed profession, understanding how fraud offenses impact your licensing status is crucial.

Understanding the Impact of Fraud Convictions on Professional Licenses

In Texas, licensing boards are mandated to uphold the integrity and trustworthiness of their respective professions. As such, they have the authority to deny, suspend, or revoke licenses for individuals convicted of crimes that directly relate to their professional duties, including fraud.

Key Legal Provisions

• Texas Occupations Code § 53.021: This statute allows licensing authorities to take disciplinary action against license holders or applicants convicted of offenses that directly relate to the duties and responsibilities of the licensed occupation.
• Texas Occupations Code § 53.025: This section outlines the factors that licensing authorities must consider when determining whether a criminal conviction warrants disciplinary action, including the nature and seriousness of the crime and its relation to the licensed occupation.

Licensing Boards and Their Disciplinary Actions

Different licensing boards in Texas have specific guidelines and procedures for handling fraud convictions:

Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR)

TDLR oversees a wide range of professions, including electricians, cosmetologists, and athletic trainers. According to TDLR's guidelines, a conviction for a crime involving fraud can lead to license denial or disciplinary action, especially if the offense is directly related to the duties of the licensed occupation. TDLR

Texas Medical Board (TMB)

For healthcare professionals, the TMB has stringent standards. A fraud conviction, such as healthcare fraud or falsifying medical records, can result in license suspension or revocation. The board considers such offenses as serious breaches of professional conduct. Texas Statutes

Texas State Board of Public Accountancy (TSBPA)

Accountants are held to high ethical standards. The TSBPA may deny or revoke a license if an individual is convicted of a crime involving dishonesty or fraud, as it directly impacts the trust placed in financial professionals. Bertolino

Factors Considered by Licensing Boards

When evaluating the impact of a fraud conviction on a professional license, boards typically consider:leichterlaw.com+1Bertolino+1

• Nature and Seriousness of the Crime: Was the offense a misdemeanor or felony?
• Relation to Professional Duties: Does the crime directly relate to the responsibilities of the licensed occupation?TDLR
• Time Elapsed Since Conviction: How much time has passed since the offense occurred?
• Evidence of Rehabilitation: Has the individual demonstrated remorse and taken steps toward rehabilitation?cartercriminaldefense.com
• Compliance with Probation or Parole: Has the individual complied with all terms of their sentence?

Steps to Protect Your Professional License

If you're facing a fraud charge or have been convicted, consider the following steps to safeguard your professional license:

1. Consult with a Professional License Defense Attorney

Engage an attorney experienced in both criminal defense and administrative law to navigate the complexities of your case and represent you before the licensing board.

2. Disclose Convictions Promptly

Many boards require self-reporting of criminal convictions. Failure to disclose can result in additional disciplinary action.Bertolino

3. Demonstrate Rehabilitation

Provide evidence of rehabilitation efforts, such as completion of counseling programs, community service, or continuing education courses.

4. Prepare for a Hearing

If your case proceeds to a hearing, be prepared to present a compelling case, including character references and documentation supporting your rehabilitation.

Conclusion

A fraud conviction can have severe implications for your professional license in Texas, potentially ending your career. However, with prompt action, legal guidance, and a commitment to rehabilitation, it's possible to mitigate the consequences and protect your professional standing.

Call to Action

If you're a licensed professional in Texas facing fraud charges or dealing with the aftermath of a conviction, it's imperative to act swiftly to protect your career. At Walker Law Office, we specialize in defending professionals against criminal charges and navigating the complexities of licensing board proceedings.

📞 Call us today at (713) 228-2611 or visit
🔗 https://www.walkerlawhouston.com/contact/
to schedule a consultation and safeguard your professional future.