State Licensure FAQs

Receiving a notice of investigation from your state licensing board can be a frightening experience that threatens your career and livelihood. Understanding your rights and the disciplinary process is the first step in protecting your professional future. Thomas Zimmerman, an experienced professional license defense attorney in Chicago, will defend your rights, guide you through the process, and work to protect the license you have worked so hard to earn.

Call 312-440-0020 for your free initial consultation.

• What should I do if a complaint is filed against my professional license?
  • The most important first step is to contact legal counsel before you respond to the board or its investigator. Anything you say can be used against you in the disciplinary process. An experienced attorney can help you craft a proper response that protects your rights from the very beginning.
• Do I need a lawyer for a professional license investigation in Illinois?
  • Yes, it is highly recommended. The licensing board has its own attorneys and investigators whose goal is to protect the public, not your career. A professional license defense attorney in Chicago acts as your advocate, ensuring procedures are followed correctly and building the strongest possible case in your defense.
• What happens during a state licensing board investigation?
  • The process typically begins when you receive a formal notice of complaint. The board will then gather evidence, which may include documents, interviews, and your official response. Depending on the findings, the board may dismiss the complaint, offer an informal settlement (like a consent order), or file a formal complaint, which can lead to an administrative hearing.
• How can a past criminal conviction affect my professional license application?
  • A past conviction, particularly for a DUI or felony, can be grounds for a license application denial. However, a denial is not always final. We can help you prepare a thorough application, write a compelling letter of explanation for a past conviction to the licensing board, and represent you in an appeal if your application is denied.
• What kind of disciplinary action can the board take?
  • Consequences can range from a private letter of reprimand to fines, probation with practice restrictions, license suspension, or complete license revocation. The severity depends on the nature of the complaint. An experienced attorney can negotiate on your behalf to mitigate potential penalties.
• Where should I begin to defend my professional license?
  • If you have received a notice of investigation from a licensing board in Illinois, the first step is to secure experienced legal representation. You can request a free, confidential consultation with Attorney Tom Zimmerman on our website or call us at 312-440-0020 to discuss your case.