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Unlicensed Contracting
Clearwater Unlicensed Contracting Attorney
According to Florida law, performing contracting work without a proper license is illegal. Contracting work includes any construction, repair, remodeling, or improvement services for a property. This matter of law is very niche and complex, so much so that many attorneys in the state are unfamiliar with it.
If you have been charged with unlicensed contracting, turn to Haworth Legal. Our skilled lawyer has handled numerous cases involving this offense, positioning him as a trusted defender of those who have been wrongly accused or simply made a mistake.
You can get in touch with our firm 24/7. Plus, we offer free consultations. Contact us and find out how our Clearwater unlicensed contracting attorney can leverage his experience on your behalf. Across all practice areas, he has achieved a 90% case success rate. With that track record, you can feel confident turning to Haworth Legal for your defense.
Start with us by calling (727) 610-8114 or reaching out through our online contact form. Our attorney represents clients in Clearwater and other areas in and around Pinellas County.
What Counts as Unlicensed Contracting in Florida?
Several things count as unlicensed contracting under Florida law, including the following:
- Falsely advertising yourself or your company as a licensee
- Impersonating someone with a contracting license
- Using another’s license as if it were your own
- Presenting false information or documents when pursuing a license
- Using a license that has been revoked or suspended
- Performing work as a contractor or advertise yourself as a contractor without being registered and certified as such
- Operating a contracting business 60 days after a qualifying agent (the person who holds a necessary license) has been terminated or left the company without appointing another qualifying agent
- Performing contracting work that requires a permit without first obtaining the permit
- Failing to follow local ordinances regarding unlicensed contracting
Penalties for Unlicensed Contracting
The penalties for unlicensed contracting can be severe. For a first-time offense, you could be charged with a misdemeanor and face up to a year in jail and fines of up to $1,000. For subsequent offenses or more serious cases involving significant property damage or harm to the public, you may be charged with a felony and be subject to much harsher penalties.
In addition to criminal charges, you may face civil penalties and lawsuits from clients harmed by your work. These consequences can range from paying financial damages to forfeiting personal assets. Not to mention, your reputation may be damaged, and your ability to obtain a legitimate contracting license could be jeopardized.
FAQs: Common Questions on Unlicensed Contracting
What is considered unlicensed contracting in Florida?
Unlicensed contracting in Florida occurs when a person performs work that requires a state or county contractor’s license without holding the proper certification. At Haworth Legal, our Florida unlicensed contracting lawyers defend clients accused of working without a license or advertising unlicensed contracting services.
What are the penalties for unlicensed contracting in Florida?
Penalties depend on the circumstances but can include misdemeanor or felony charges, fines, probation, and even jail time. Repeat offenses or violations committed during a declared state of emergency are subject to enhanced penalties. Haworth Legal works to reduce or dismiss these charges to protect your record and livelihood.
Is unlicensed contracting a felony in Florida?
Yes, in some cases. While first-time unlicensed contracting is often a misdemeanor, repeat offenses or contracting during a state of emergency can be charged as a third-degree felony. Our Florida unlicensed contracting defense attorneys at Haworth Legal fight to limit these severe consequences.
Can unlicensed contracting charges in Florida be dismissed or reduced?
Yes. Charges may be reduced or dismissed if the state lacks sufficient evidence, if the work did not require a license, or if your rights were violated during the investigation. Haworth Legal carefully reviews every detail of your case to pursue the strongest possible defense.
Why should I hire Haworth Legal to defend against unlicensed contracting charges in Florida?
Unlicensed contracting charges can threaten your freedom, finances, and professional future. Haworth Legal provides aggressive statewide defense for clients accused of working without a license, protecting your rights and pursuing the best possible resolution. Contact our Florida unlicensed contracting attorneys today for a confidential consultation.
Defenses Against Unlicensed Contracting Charges
If you have been charged with unlicensed contracting, do not lose hope. Our Clearwater unlicensed contracting attorney can use several potential defenses to fight these charges.
On your behalf, he may argue the following:
- The work you performed did not require a license
- You were working under the supervision of someone with a valid license
- There was no intent to deceive or defraud anyone
- You did not hold yourself out to be a license holder
- There is insufficient evidence that you committed an unlicensed contracting offense
Charged with Unlicensed Contracting in Pinellas County? Call Us Right Away.
Do not let unlicensed contracting charges ruin your future and career. Turn to Haworth Legal for aggressive legal representation to help you achieve the best possible outcome in your case. Learn more about your charges, defense options, and the next steps for partnering with us in a free consultation.