Will I Lose My Job or Professional License if I Am Convicted of a Crime in Michigan

Our East Lansing criminal defense lawyer at Ben Hall Law knows that getting arrested for a crime in Michigan has life-changing consequences—especially when your career or professional license is at stake if you are convicted.

Understanding whether you will lose your job or professional license if you are convicted of a crime in Michigan is crucial. This understanding is based on several factors, including the nature of the crime, your employer’s policies, and the specific regulations governing your professional license.

The Nature of the Crime May Impact Employment Consequences

Many employers have policies regarding criminal convictions. Depending on the severity and nature of the crime, your employer may choose to terminate your employment. Standard policies include termination for felonies, certain misdemeanors, or any crime related to dishonesty or moral turpitude.

If the crime you have been charged with is related to your job duties, involving theft, fraud, violence, or other serious offenses, it is more likely to result in job loss. For instance, a conviction for embezzlement would severely impact a financial professional’s career.

Seeking the guidance of a defense attorney when facing criminal or misconduct in office charges is not just advisable; it’s essential. This step can help you avoid a conviction and prevent you from being overwhelmed by the potential consequences that your employer or the licensing board process may impose.

Our dedicated East Lansing attorney represents Michigan residents facing criminal charges and specializes in defending public office employees and police officers throughout the state.

Professional Licenses Often Require Mandatory Reporting for Criminal Convictions

Professional licensing boards in Michigan often have strict rules about criminal convictions. Many boards require license holders to report convictions and can impose sanctions, including suspension or revocation of the license, depending on the nature of the crime.

Certain professions, such as lawyers, doctors, nurses, and teachers, have mandatory reporting requirements. Failure to report a conviction can lead to additional penalties, including immediate suspension or revocation of the license.

Crimes involving dishonesty, fraud, theft, violence, or drug-related offenses are more likely to impact professional licenses.

For example:

• Healthcare Professionals: Convictions related to drug abuse or patient harm can lead to license suspension or revocation.
• Lawyers: Ethical violations and crimes involving dishonesty can result in disbarment.
• Teachers: Crimes involving children, violence, or moral turpitude can lead to revocation of teaching credentials.

Most licensing boards conduct disciplinary hearings, during which the circumstances of the conviction are reviewed and consequences are implemented.

A criminal conviction in Michigan can have severe repercussions for your employment and professional licenses, depending on the nature of the crime and the policies of your employer or licensing board. Consulting with our legal professionals to navigate these complexities is crucial in protecting your career and professional standing.

Contact Our Criminal Defense Attorney in East Lansing Today

Contact our criminal defense lawyers in East Lansing to discuss your case with a trusted professional who believes in you and your case by calling (877)-236-4255 or contacting us online. Your fight is our fight. Let’s get started.