If you are headed for an administrative hearing to defend your professional license in California you might not know what to expect. It’s likely you don’t even know someone who has appeared at one of these hearings. So, what can you expect in an administrative hearing?
Administrative hearings surrounding education licenses are most commonly held in California for disciplinary reasons. Even teachers can face discipline, especially if their conduct in the classroom warrants it. The State Department of Education can hold these hearings if it intends to suspend, revoke or limit an educator’s license. The hearings can also be held if a person appeals a decision by the board for denying the application for a license.
You should be prepared for any type of hearing you have to attend regarding your educator’s license. This license allows you to teach in California schools. If you don’t have this license you won’t be able to get a job no matter your resume. Bring as much evidence as possible with you that defends the stance you are taking in front of the panel.
Expect to answer a ton of questions. The panel will ask you just about everything under the sun in an effort to come to a decision about your license. This is where an experienced attorney can help you immensely.
You are allowed to represent yourself at an administrative hearing, but your professional license is too important to your career to not have an experienced attorney by your side in Sacramento.
Source: California Office of Administrative Hearings, “The Mission of the Office of Administrative Hearings,” accessed Oct. 06, 2017
