Protecting Your Professional License in Kansas:

Understanding Which Licenses Are At Stake When Charged With a Crime

Maintaining a professional license in Kansas is essential for individuals working in regulated industries such as healthcare, law, finance, and many others. However, facing criminal charges can put your professional license at risk, potentially jeopardizing your livelihood and career. Understanding which professional licenses are at stake when charged with a crime is crucial for individuals in Kansas. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the various types of professional licenses that may be affected by criminal charges, cite relevant Kansas statutes, define legal terms, discuss the license defense process in Kansas, and highlight the importance of retaining an attorney to safeguard your professional license at each step of the process.

Relevant Kansas Statutes

Professional licensing in Kansas is governed by a variety of statutes and regulations, depending on the specific profession. Some of the key statutes relevant to professional licensing include:

  1. K.S.A. Chapter 65-28a: This chapter of the Kansas Statutes Annotated (K.S.A.) outlines the Kansas Healing Arts Act, which governs the licensing and regulation of healthcare professionals such as physicians, nurses, dentists, and chiropractors.
  2. K.S.A. Chapter 74: This chapter of the K.S.A. covers the Kansas Administrative Procedure Act, which sets forth the procedures for administrative hearings and appeals related to professional licensing matters.
  3. K.S.A. Chapter 74, Article 14: This article of the K.S.A. specifically addresses the licensing and regulation of attorneys in Kansas, including the rules of professional conduct and disciplinary proceedings.

Legal Definitions

Understanding key legal terms related to professional licensing and criminal charges is essential:

  1. Professional License: A government-issued authorization that allows individuals to practice a specific profession or occupation, subject to regulatory oversight and requirements.
  2. Criminal Charges: Formal accusations by a governmental authority alleging that an individual has committed a crime, which may result in criminal prosecution and potential penalties if convicted.
  3. Administrative Proceedings: Legal proceedings conducted by administrative agencies rather than traditional courts, typically involving matters such as professional licensing, regulatory compliance, and disciplinary actions.

Professional Licenses at Stake

Several types of professional licenses in Kansas may be at stake when an individual is charged with a crime, including but not limited to:

  1. Medical Licenses: Physicians, nurses, dentists, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals are subject to licensure by the Kansas Board of Healing Arts. Criminal charges such as drug offenses, fraud, or patient abuse can jeopardize their medical licenses.
  2. Legal Licenses: Attorneys licensed to practice law in Kansas are regulated by the Kansas Supreme Court and the Kansas Board for Discipline of Attorneys. Criminal charges such as theft, embezzlement, or ethical violations can result in disciplinary action against their legal licenses.
  3. Financial Licenses: Professionals in finance and accounting, including certified public accountants (CPAs), financial advisors, and insurance agents, are subject to licensure by various state agencies. Criminal charges such as fraud, securities violations, or embezzlement can impact their financial licenses.
  4. Education Licenses: Teachers, administrators, and other education professionals are licensed by the Kansas State Department of Education. Criminal charges such as child abuse, sexual misconduct, or drug offenses can lead to the revocation or suspension of their education licenses.

License Defense Process in Kansas

The process for defending a professional license in Kansas typically involves the following steps:

  1. Notice of Allegations: Upon learning of criminal charges against a licensed professional, the licensing board or agency may issue a notice of allegations and initiate an investigation into the matter.
  2. Administrative Hearing: If the licensing board determines that there is sufficient evidence to support disciplinary action, the licensed professional may be entitled to an administrative hearing before an administrative law judge.
  3. Evidence and Arguments: During the administrative hearing, the licensed professional and their attorney have the opportunity to present evidence, testimony, and legal arguments in defense of the license.
  4. Decision and Appeals: After considering the evidence and arguments presented, the administrative law judge issues a decision regarding the disciplinary action. The licensed professional may have the right to appeal the decision to a higher administrative body or to the state courts.

Why You Need an Attorney

Retaining an experienced Kansas professional license defense attorney is crucial for protecting your livelihood and career for several reasons:

  • Legal Expertise: An attorney specializing in professional license defense understands the complex laws and regulations governing your profession and can provide knowledgeable guidance throughout the process.
  • Advocacy and Representation: An attorney advocates for your rights and interests during administrative hearings, presenting evidence and legal arguments to defend your license effectively.
  • Negotiation and Settlement: An attorney can negotiate with the licensing board or agency to seek a favorable resolution, such as a reduced penalty or reinstatement of the license.
  • Appeals: If necessary, an attorney can represent you in appeals of adverse decisions, ensuring that your case receives a fair and thorough review.


In conclusion, facing criminal charges in Kansas can have serious consequences for your professional license and career. By understanding the types of professional licenses at stake, the license defense process in Kansas, and the importance of retaining an attorney, you can take proactive steps to protect your livelihood and future opportunities.

Call Sanger Law Office to Defend Your License

At Sanger Law Office, our mission is to empower professionals with the knowledge and defense mechanisms essential for their career trajectory. We offer our expertise to individuals across Kansas and Missouri. Don’t let myths muddy your judgments. Contact us today at 785-979-4353 (Kansas) or 816-520-8040 (Missouri) to explore how we can sculpt a defense strategy tailored to your unique situation.

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