What Do I Do If I am a CA Licensed Professional and Am Arrested?
Why Even a Misdemeanor Arrest Can Affect Your Career
If you’re a licensed professional in California — a nurse, teacher, doctor, broker, therapist, or anyone regulated by a state board — being arrested can have serious professional consequences.
Even a first-time misdemeanor, such as a DUI, can trigger mandatory reporting requirements, board investigations, or disciplinary review. In some cases, failing to report the incident properly can create more problems than the arrest itself.
Key Takeaways
- Some boards require arrest reporting — others only require reporting of convictions.
- Reporting rules vary significantly between licensing boards.
- Failing to report when required can result in additional disciplinary action.
- You have the right to remain silent — even when contacted by your licensing board.
- Always consult with a professional license defense attorney before responding to a board inquiry.
Do I Have to Report the Arrest?
That depends on your board.
Some licensing agencies — like the Board of Registered Nursing or Medical Board — require immediate reporting of certain arrests. Others only require reporting after a conviction, or as part of your license renewal application.
The Department of Consumer Affairs oversees dozens of boards, and each has its own rules. Some examples include:
- Board of Behavioral Sciences
- Commission on Teacher Credentialing
- Department of Insurance
- Department of Real Estate
- Board of Pharmacy
- State Bar of California
If you’re not sure what your board requires — or if you’ve already missed a deadline — talk to a license defense attorney right away.
What Happens After the Board Is Notified?
Once your board becomes aware of your arrest or conviction, they will likely follow up with you. This may include:
- A request for a written explanation
- An interview with a board investigator or enforcement agent
- A formal inquiry from the Department of Consumer Affairs
While the board may cite “cooperation” requirements, you still have constitutional rights — including the right to remain silent under the Fifth Amendment. You should not provide statements or attend interviews without first speaking to an attorney.
How We Help
At the Law Office of Jonathan Turner, we guide California professionals through every stage of board response — from reporting obligations to investigator interviews to license defense hearings. We’ve represented:
- Nurses and physicians accused of DUI or drug-related offenses
- Teachers and educators contacted after domestic or civil matters
- Real estate and insurance professionals involved in white collar or financial arrests
We help clients respond clearly, legally, and strategically — protecting their rights and their licenses.
What to Do If You’re Arrested
If you’ve been arrested and hold a professional license in California:
- Do not panic — but act quickly
- Review your board’s reporting requirements
- Do not submit a written statement until you’ve spoken to an attorney
- If contacted by an investigator, politely decline and seek legal counsel
- Schedule a free consultation with a license defense attorney
Your license is your livelihood. If you’ve been arrested, protect it by getting experienced legal help early.
Legal Trouble With Your Professional Licensing Board? Call California Administrative Law Attorney for FREE consultation.
(916) 471-6506
LEGAL TROUBLE WITH YOUR PROFESSIONAL LICENSING BOARD?
If you received a denial of a professional license or any threat to your ability to continue practicing your profession, please contact attorney Jonathan Turner at the Law Office of Jonathan Turner using this contact form or call (916) 471-6506 for a personal conversation.