1453 Market Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32312 Pay Your Bill help@swordandshield.com (850) 815-0256

DBPR License Defense & Licensure Attorney

The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) licenses and disciplines more than a million professionals and businesses. We represent applicants and licensees before the Department and its boards.

Who we represent

  • General, building, residential, and specialty contractors (Construction Industry Licensing Board)
  • Electrical and alarm contractors (Electrical Contractors' Licensing Board)
  • Real estate brokers, sales associates, and appraisers (Florida Real Estate Commission and Appraisal Board)
  • Certified public accountants (Board of Accountancy)
  • Cosmetologists, barbers, and salons
  • Community association managers and home inspectors
  • Architects, interior designers, and veterinarians
  • Restaurants, hotels, and lodging establishments
  • Alcoholic beverage and tobacco license holders

What we handle

  • Complaints, investigations, and uniform disciplinary citations
  • Administrative complaints and hearings
  • Unlicensed activity allegations, cease and desist notices, and citations
  • License applications, including applications with criminal history or prior discipline
  • Qualifying agent and business entity licensing issues
  • Probation appearances and compliance with final orders
  • Financial responsibility and credit issues for contractor applicants

Why early representation matters

DBPR discipline can include fines, probation, suspension, restitution, and revocation, and a disciplinary record is public. Many cases can be narrowed or closed during the investigation, before formal charges are ever filed. The earlier we are involved, the more options you have.

Frequently asked questions

A customer filed a complaint against my contractor license. What happens now?

DBPR reviews the complaint for legal sufficiency and, if it proceeds, assigns an investigator who will ask for your response. The case may then go to a probable cause panel. You have the right to counsel at every step.

I was accused of unlicensed activity. Is that a licensing matter or a crime?

It can be both. DBPR can impose administrative fines for unlicensed activity, and in some circumstances it is also a criminal offense. That overlap is a reason to get advice before making any statement.

Can I get a DBPR license with a criminal record?

Often, yes. It depends on the offense, how long ago it occurred, the profession, and how the history is disclosed and explained. We help applicants prepare and, when needed, appear before the board.

This page is general information about Florida law, not legal advice for your situation. Deadlines and procedures vary by case and change over time.

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