When your professional license is in jeopardy, an attorney can help you to navigate the process, from the questions asked on a background check questionnaire, to appealing an unfavorable decision once it has been made. It is important to know your rights to ensure you meet all necessary deadlines and demand that the proper procedures are followed at every step.
Administrative Hearings
Every agency is governed by its own internal rules and procedures, in addition to the state and/or federal laws which may apply. If an agency procedure allows for an opportunity for a live hearing to contest the allegations against you, the rules that govern that proceeding are not necessarily the same as those that apply in a courtroom. A lawyer can help you to review the rules that apply in your circumstance to ensure you are protecting your interests in the best way possible.
Appealing a Decision
If an agency makes an unfavorable decision and rules against you during their internal administrative process, they may notify you of additional appeals processes which take place within the organization. Once you have exhausted the internal appeals process, you will be notified that the agency has made a final decision.
Florida Statute s. 120.569 allows a person to appeal certain final agency decisions within the court system. There are short timelines that apply during which someone must request such a hearing, so it is important to consult with an attorney about your rights as early as possible within any administrative process.
Although lawyers are not required and not provided automatically in most administrative proceedings, involving an attorney early on in the process can be a game-changer. Attorney Lori Wurtzel has career experience as a litigator and with administrative agencies. Lori knows the rules, procedures, and understands how to best protect your rights. Too often, professionals wait until the last minute to involve an attorney, when much of the damage has already been done. Contact Wurtzel Law, PLLC today for a free consultation to discuss your rights and what we can do to help.