A wide range of real estate professionals, such as brokers, appraisers, and home inspectors, operate under the oversight of the Illinois Real Estate Board, a division of the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). This board has the authority to discipline real estate licenses for various reasons. Those confronted with license suspension, revocation, or denial should seek guidance from a knowledgeable professional license defense attorney to safeguard their careers.
Defending Your Real Estate License in Illinois
If you’re a real estate broker, appraiser, or another licensed professional in Illinois, your career depends on maintaining a valid license from the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). Facing disciplinary action, such as suspension or revocation of your license, can be daunting. That’s why having experienced legal support is essential to navigate these situations and protect your ability to work.
Common Reasons for Real Estate License Discipline
The IDFPR may take action against your license for a variety of reasons, including:
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Failing to Meet Continuing Education Requirements: Brokers must complete the necessary hours of continuing education to maintain their licenses. For example, brokers licensed before November 1, 2021, must complete 12 hours of courses, while those licensed after that date need 45 hours. Missing these requirements can lead to suspension or revocation.
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Misrepresentation: Providing false information about a property, such as misleading buyers about its condition or ownership, is considered fraud and can result in disciplinary actions.
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Criminal Convictions: Certain crimes, especially those involving finances or moral turpitude, can jeopardize your license. These might include embezzlement, extortion, fraud, or identity theft. Even unrelated crimes like theft or perjury can lead to sanctions.
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Failure to Cooperate With the IDFPR: Ignoring requests for documents or information during an investigation can result in severe penalties, even if you’re confident you did nothing wrong.
Steps to Take if You’re Contacted by the IDFPR
If you receive notice of a complaint, hearing, or investigation, it’s critical to act quickly and carefully:
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Consult With an Attorney: Before providing any information or documents to the IDFPR, consult with a knowledgeable real estate license defense lawyer. This ensures your rights are protected and you’re not inadvertently making your situation worse.
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Prepare for Informal Conferences or Hearings: An attorney can help you understand what to expect during preliminary hearings or informal conferences and ensure you’re prepared to present your case effectively.
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Respond to Notices or Deficiency Checklists: If you’ve been asked to provide information about past criminal convictions or other issues, legal guidance can help you draft a thorough and accurate response to avoid unnecessary delays or denials of your license.
How the Callahan Law Firm Can Help
Our team has extensive experience representing Illinois real estate professionals in license defense cases. We can:
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Offer a free initial consultation to review your case and explain potential outcomes.
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Develop a strategy to address IDFPR inquiries or disciplinary actions.
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Represent you in hearings or negotiations with the IDFPR.
Real Estate License Defense Attorneys at The Callahan Law Firm
Facing discipline, professionals may receive notices for hearings or conferences from the IDFPR. Prior to meeting with investigators, submitting documents and records, or surrendering licenses, contact the professional license defense attorneys at the Callahan Law Firm. We can help you navigate potential disciplinary actions. Call now to schedule your free consultation and begin planning your real estate license defense.
