Sarasota Contracting Without a License Lawyer

Sarasota Contracting Without a License Attorney

In Florida, unlicensed contracting is considered a serious offense that carries significant consequences. For safety reasons, all contractors are required to have a license that proves they possess the appropriate skills and knowledge necessary to perform the work. A top-rated Sarasota criminal defense lawyer can provide crucial guidance and representation if you are facing charges related to unlicensed contracting. If you have been charged, it is important that you reach out to a Sarasota contracting without a license lawyer as soon as possible.

Aside from the more obvious penalties of jail time and fines, being convicted of unlicensed contracting can have ongoing effects on your life. Your professional reputation in your community and the probability of being hired for new jobs in the future may be in jeopardy. These are just a few reasons why hiring a lawyer sooner rather than later can be of benefit.

Florida Contractor License Laws

The Department of Business and Professional Regulation is the entity that governs the contractor licensing process. They are responsible for providing applications for contractors to receive their licenses. There are multiple licenses that are required for various types of work. Some contract jobs that require licensure include:

• Air Conditioning
• Glass and glazing
• Plumbing
• Electrical
• Roofing
• Underground excavation
• Pool building and repair

There are many steps that need to be taken in order for a contractor to receive a license, such as passing a competency test. Additionally, a person may be required to complete the following:

• Give fingerprints
• Provide proof of financial stability
• Pay fees required by the specific type of application

Penalties for Unlicensed Contracting

The charge for unlicensed contracting can be a first-degree misdemeanor. The penalties for this type of charge can include up to 1 year in jail, probation, and fines. This is typical for those who are first-time offenders. For someone who has a criminal record, the penalties may be more severe.

Additionally, the state of Florida recognizes the dangers of unlicensed contracting during a time of a State of Emergency. For those found guilty of this, penalties could be even more serious.

Defenses For Unlicensed Contracting

One common defense for those charged with unlicensed contracting is claiming that the work they performed was not compensated. In order for the action to be counted as illegal, there must have been compensation. Examples of compensation include cash, checks, goods, services, and any other form of payment.

In some cases, other relevant factors may be present, such as a contractor being unaware that their license had expired or that they did not have the appropriate license at the time that they performed the contract work. These factors may be included in a defense case and may be taken into consideration by a judge.

How a Lawyer Can Help

While you are not required to hire a lawyer to represent you in court, it can be beneficial in many ways to have an experienced attorney by your side. Whether you are guilty or not, your public image and business can be negatively affected by claims that you performed unlicensed work. A lawyer will fight for your rights and ensure that your voice is heard.

Florida considers unlicensed contracting to be a serious crime. A lawyer who has handled similar cases can guide you through the legal complexities and build a strong defense aimed at protecting both your business and your public image.

FAQs

Q: Can I Hire an Unlicensed Contractor in Florida?

A: It is illegal to hire an unlicensed contractor in Florida. It is considered criminal activity for a contractor or business to provide contract services without having the proper licensure. If a contractor is found to be operating without the appropriate licensure, the Department of Business and Professional Regulation can implement a cease and desist order. The contractor may face criminal charges and be expected to serve jail time or pay fines.

Q: Can a Claim Be Filed Against an Unlicensed Contractor in Florida?

A: Yes, a claim can be filed against an unlicensed contractor in Florida for specific claims such as damages, negligence, breach of contract, and even court and attorney fees. The contractor, if found guilty, may be charged with a first-degree misdemeanor. Penalties for this charge include jail time and fines. However, penalties may vary based on their criminal record and other pertinent details of your specific case.

Q: What Construction Work Does Not Require a License in Florida?

A: There are various types of construction work that do not require a license in Florida. Some simple tasks, such as changing light bulbs, installing wireless components in your home, installing solar-powered lighting in your yard, and changing outlet covers, can be done without a license. Typically, tasks that require wiring or structural work require someone to have a license.

Q: How Do You Know If a Contractor Is Licensed?

A: Contractors are required to show their license number in any form of advertising they do. If a contractor’s advertisement does not list a license number, it may indicate they do not have one. Additionally, contractors who encourage prepayment, a check written to them individually, or refuse to produce a written contract may not have a license.

Reach Out to a Dedicated Sarasota Unlicensed Contracting Attorney Today

The laws surrounding construction and contracting can be complex and overwhelming to understand. Aside from getting a firm grasp on your understanding of the law, it can be difficult to engage in a legal battle while also maintaining your typical daily responsibilities. Hiring an experienced, unlicensed contracting lawyer who can explain the legal intricacies and advocate for you throughout the process can give you peace of mind and your strongest chance for a positive result.

At Ruhl Law, P.A., our team of unlicensed contracting lawyers is ready and equipped to assess your case and help you navigate this difficult time. We will fight for your rights and ensure that your case is handled with fairness. Reach out today to schedule a consultation to learn more about how we may be able to help and to ask any questions you may have.