Can I Apply for an Illinois Professional License If I Have a Criminal Record?

 Posted on September 26,2022 in Medical License Defense

There are many professions in Illinois that require a professional license. There are boards that oversee the different types of licenses, with most of them falling under the umbrella of the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). Each board has their own set of rules and regulations that stipulate what is required and what is forbidden for someone to be approved for their license. One of the factors that could make it difficult for an applicant to obtain a license is if the applicant has been convicted of a crime.

What Type of Criminal Record Will Not Have an Impact on a License Application?

Generally, there are certain types of criminal record entries that should not have an effect on a license application. These include:

• Any arrests and adjudications that occurred when the applicant was a juvenile

• Any arrests that did not result in charges

• Any charges that were dismissed (unless the charges were connected to the profession the person is seeking licensure for)

• Any criminal convictions that were eventually overturned

• Any criminal arrests or convictions that were expunged or had the record sealed

Intent to Deny Letter

If the license application includes a question about any criminal convictions, it is imperative the applicant answers honestly. Generally, there is also a place where the applicant can provide details about the conviction. This is where the applicant can explain their life prior to the conviction and the changes they have made since.

If the conviction is serious enough, the IDFPR or the board that oversees the license for which the applicant is applying may send an “Intent to Deny” letter. Any applicant who receives this letter should contact an attorney right away. This letter does not mean the application has been denied. It means that the applicant has a limited amount of time to respond and request a hearing where they can plead their case, explaining to the board why they are a good candidate for a professional license.

Contact an Illinois Professional License Defense Attorney for Help

If you have a criminal record and are worried it will prevent you from getting a professional license or if you have received an Intent to Deny letter, contact a skilled Illinois professional license application lawyer from The Law Offices of Joseph J. Bogdan, Inc. to find out what legal options you may have to obtain your license. Call 630-310-1267 to schedule a confidential consultation.

Source:

https://idfpr.illinois.gov/