Under California law, professional licensing boards have the authority to take disciplinary action against licensees who have been convicted of crimes, including domestic violence. As such, domestic violence convictions in California can have severe repercussions on both your personal and professional life, including your professional license.

California Professional License Regulations

California professional licenses are primarily governed by California Business & Professions Code 480 BPC, which allows boards to deny, suspend, or revoke licenses based on criminal convictions that are significantly connected to the qualifications, functions, or duties of the profession. The most common professions that can be affected by domestic violence convictions are:

• Healthcare Professionals: Doctors, nurses, therapists, and other healthcare workers can face license suspension or revocation. The California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) and other medical boards consider domestic violence as a "crime of moral turpitude," potentially warranting disciplinary action.
• Legal Professionals: Attorneys and other legal practitioners are held to high ethical standards. A domestic violence conviction can lead to disciplinary proceedings by the State Bar, potentially resulting in suspension or disbarment.
• Educators: Teachers and school administrators are entrusted with the well-being of students. A conviction can raise concerns about their fitness to work in educational settings, leading to the revocation or suspension of teaching credentials.

It is important to remember, however, that while a conviction does not automatically result in license revocation, licensing boards have significant discretion in deciding whether to take disciplinary action. They consider the nature of the crime, its connection to the professional's duties, and any mitigating factors. Moreover, many licensing boards require professionals to self-report criminal convictions. Failure to do so can also be grounds for disciplinary action.

How the Sigal Law Group Can Help:

A domestic violence conviction in California can jeopardize your professional license, potentially leading to suspension or revocation. However, the process is not automatic, and there are legal avenues to protect your career. If you find yourself facing such charges, consulting with an experienced criminal defense attorney is essential to navigate the complex legal landscape and safeguard your professional future.

If you have been charged with, or convicted of, domestic violence, your professional license is in jeopardy. Contact the Sigal Law Group today for a free consultation.