06/22/2025
Accused of a Crime in California? Understanding Your Rights
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(707) 244-6050
A criminal charge in California threatens your freedom and can put your career on the line. If you hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL) or another professional credential, you must act immediately and strategically to protect your livelihood.
California Business and Professions Code 480 allows state licensing boards to suspend or revoke a license for crimes “substantially related” to your job’s qualifications, duties or functions. Boards can take action even if the offense happened off-duty.
For example, a DUI arrest can cause your board to question public safety or substance abuse concerns. These issues can threaten your standing as a CDL holder, nurse or other licensed professional. Boards often receive notice as soon as prosecutors file charges.
Licensing boards respond to charges with a range of disciplinary measures. These include:
These measures can stop you from working. Building a defense as soon as possible gives you a better chance to avoid them.
A misdemeanor conviction can still trigger severe professional consequences. Some plea deals that help in criminal court can damage your license. For example, your board may treat a completed diversion program as an admission of misconduct.
An attorney skilled in both criminal defense and license protection can design a strategy that limits harm to your career. They can negotiate for reduced charges, challenge claims that your offense is “substantially related” and present rehabilitation evidence that strengthens your case.
If you face charges, refuse to answer licensing board investigators without your lawyer present. Anything you say can be used against you in both criminal and administrative proceedings. Hire counsel who understands both licensing law and criminal defense.
Your career depends on more than your court outcome. The right defense from day one can make the difference between keeping your license and losing your livelihood.
