You’ve been dreaming of becoming a CPA. You’ve spent hours studying for accounting exams and passed with flying colors. You submitted all of your required documents to the Board to officially apply for your license. Then, you received a response you didn’t anticipate. Instead of opening a confirmation on your license application, you received a packet of legal documents (called a Statement of Issues) which told you your license application had been denied. If this is you, our team at Unlock Legal can help.
Understand the Causes of Denial
The California Board of Accountancy’s main purpose is to regulate accounting practices and ensure all representatives are acting ethically and within the law. They have the right to deny, revoke, suspend, or refuse to renew any permit or certificate. If your license application was denied, here are some reasons to consider:
- conviction within the last seven (7) years that is “substantially related” to accountancy
- a financial felony related to accountancy work
- serious offenses like assault or theft
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Appeal Your Denial
If your California CPA license application was denied, the California Board of Accountancy does allow you to submit an appeal letter (called a Notice of Defense) within 15 days of receiving your denial. Once this letter is submitted, the case will be referred to the Attorney General to determine the proceedings. This is where a professional license defense attorney can help you get the best possible outcome. Prior to the hearing and during the settlement negotiation phase, you will have the opportunity to provide documents and witnesses to support your case. Your California defense lawyer can prepare all of these documents and testimonials for settlement and to represent you in the courtroom.
After the hearing has concluded, the administrative law judge who presided over the hearing will submit their proposed opinion to the Board. The Board will then determine if they will approve, modify, or deny the Administrative Law Judge’s opinion as to your denial. If your California CPA license application is approved, the Board may propose certain restrictions such as probation. If the appeal is not granted, you will have one year from the date of your denial letter to reapply for your license.
Contact Unlock Legal
If you received a Statement of Issues and your California Board of Accountancy license was denied, contact Unlock Legal immediately. Our team has helped hundreds of professionals unlock their licenses and get back to their dream jobs. We have experience working with a variety of licensing boards and can get you the best possible outcome for your case.
If you fear your professional license is in jeopardy, please don’t hesitate to reach out for a quick, discreet, and confidential consultation. Know that with us, you are in great hands. Contact Unlock Legal today or give us a call at your convenience at 949-988-4444 to speak with a professional about your case and your unique needs. You’ll find we are compassionate, easy to talk to, and willing to help in any capacity we can. Losing your license doesn’t have to be the end of your career. Your journey to reinstatement starts with a quick meeting.