What should I do if I receive a complaint?

Larry Bradshaw

You should contact an attorney experienced in dealing with agencies of the State of Florida. Gather all of the documents the State sent or served on you, plus any other letters, correspondence, or notes and be prepared to review them with the attorney. If you don’t respond to a notice from the State of Florida in a timely manner you …

Should I speak with the Investigator?

Larry Bradshaw

Generally speaking, you should avoid giving statements to government investigators who are looking into a complaint against you. Remember, any statement that you provide to the agency or its attorneys may be used against you. Many people who speak with me about their situation are under the mistaken impression that they can charm or endear themselves to the agency investigator …

What happens after a complaint has been filed against me or my license has been denied?

Larry Bradshaw

You are usually given a deadline to respond or appeal the actions of the state agency. If an agency receives information that a licensee may have violated the law governing that business or profession, it may commence an investigation and possible disciplinary proceedings. The State is required to notify you of the decision and provide you with rights to appeal …

I received an Emergency Suspension Order (ESO) can I still work?

Larry Bradshaw

No. The ESO is issued in extreme cases where the government believes the licensee is an immediate threat to the safety and welfare of the public. The license is suspended from the date that the ESO is filed with the Agency Clerk (see the upper left corner of the ESO front page for date stamp). You should immediately have an …

If I have a Criminal Record Should I Disclose it in My Application?

Larry Bradshaw

Yes. When in doubt disclose it. Applicants are denied a license for failing to disclose criminal records. Never make the assumption that the state agency will not find or uncover a past criminal record or conviction. In instances where an applicant lies about his/her criminal past when the agency finds out after the license is issued, the agency will proceed …

I have a criminal conviction or arrest. Can I get a license in Florida?

Larry Bradshaw

It depends. Some types of convictions will bar you from licensure. Others have a required disqualification period. Even if you are disqualified from licensure, you can sometimes remove the disqualification by presenting legally recognized mitigating factors.

What law governs my situation?

Larry Bradshaw

It depends on the nature of your case and the specific agency of state government you are dealing with. Generally speaking, if you are challenging a final action of a state agency, Chapter 120, Florida Statutes sets forth the procedures. However, each state agency has specific laws and rules which govern the type of business or professional license you have. …

What type of cases does your firm handle?

Larry Bradshaw

Our attorneys are experienced in handling a wide variety of cases involving the Department of Financial Services, Department of Business and Professional Regulation, Department of Health, Agency for Health Care Administration, Department of Education, and other state and federal agencies.