Chula Vista Real Estate License Defense Attorney
The loss of a professional license can wreak havoc on your career. If you are in danger of losing your professional license, you should do whatever you can to prevent that from happening. Losing your source of income can be complicated enough, but the damage it can do to your professional reputation can be irreparable. Consult with a Chula Vista real estate license defense lawyer for help with your defense.
The legal team at Century Law Group, LLP, recognizes the complications of building a real estate license defense strategy with the help of a Chula Vista professional license defense lawyer. It’s understandable to have reservations, especially if you are unaware of California’s real estate license defense laws and don’t know where to start. It begins with contacting a Chula Vista real estate license defense attorney for help in defending your position and building your defense.
As of February 2026, there were 412,915 total licensed real estate brokers and salespeople in California, and only 55,169 houses for sale in the state as of January 2026. The market is not only competitive for home buyers, but for realtors trying to make a living selling real estate, as well. You can’t afford a setback in this market caused by the loss of your license.
Common Real Estate Law Violations in Chula Vista
If someone has filed a complaint against you with the Department of Real Estate (DRE), your real estate license may be in jeopardy, and knowing how to respond can protect your career. If you’ve received a notification from the DRE, your upcoming administrative hearing has probably already been scheduled at the Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) in San Diego, located on West Broadway.
While not a criminal court proceeding, it can certainly feel like you’re on trial. You should seek legal counsel from a Chula Vista real estate license defense attorney to prepare.
For the DRE to move ahead with an investigation, they need to be able to prove that the complaint is under the DRE’s jurisdiction and that the complaint relates directly to a violation of the state’s real estate laws. Following a formal investigation, an accusation is made if they deem the complaint credible. Some common violations real estate license holders face are listed below:
- Misrepresentation. One of the most common complaints potential buyers file against real estate licensees is for the misrepresentation of a property. This happens when a realtor fails to disclose any known property defects or falsely advertises property features.
- Unlicensed activity. California state law makes it illegal for a real estate agent to employ unlicensed people to help perform real estate operations. They can’t show properties, hold open houses, or discuss contract terms with potential buyers or sellers. If you are found to have unlicensed agents under your firm, you could face severe disciplinary action from the DRE and a potential loss of license.
- Mishandling client funds. Combining client funds with personal or business accounts can result in serious consequences that may include the loss of your real estate license. When it comes to mishandling your clients’ funds, you can even face disciplinary actions if you are caught failing to keep accurate records of clients’ funds.
- Criminal activity. If you are convicted of a crime that is substantially related to California real estate, such as fraud or theft, the DRE could decide to pursue action against you and revoke your license. When the DRE decides that taking away a license is necessary to preserve the integrity of the California real estate industry, they don’t hesitate to do so.
- Failure to supervise. This occurs when a licensed real estate broker neglects to oversee company operations or the actions of salespeople in their firm, which can lead to gross misconduct. Actions that can lead to a loss of a license include failure to review contracts, neglecting to keep proper client records, misleading advertising, and more.
FAQs
How Much Does a Real Estate License Defense Attorney Cost in California?
The cost of a real estate license defense attorney in California is different for every case. Real estate license defense attorneys charge varying amounts depending on their experience, region, and the complexity of the case. Potential appeals and reinstatements can cost even more. Consult with a local law firm in your area to get an accurate quote for your legal needs.
What Kind of Lawyer Deals With Real Estate Issues?
A real estate defense lawyer in Chula Vista, California deals with legal real estate defense issues that involve actions taken against real estate license holders. Other types of real estate lawyers generally handle property disputes, transactions, and regulations. For a real estate license defense case, a professional license defense lawyer who focuses on helping defend individuals during their administrative hearings is the right fit.
Do You Need a License to Be a Real Estate Agent in California?
Yes, you need to have a professional license to be a real estate agent in California. To get a real estate license, you need to pass a background check, be somewhat educated in the state’s real estate laws, and you need to pass a state exam. Real estate agents in California are also required to work under a real estate broker, and they have to be licensed as well. Selling real estate without a license is illegal in California.
Can I Sell My Own House Without a License in California?
Yes, you can sell your own house without a real estate license in California. Since you are the homeowner, you are exempt from getting licensed to sell the property. This is often referred to as “for sale by owner.” However, if you attempt to represent others without a license or sell a property that doesn’t belong to you, this is illegal. Acting as a broker for other people without a valid license can result in fines and possibly jail time.
Hire a Real Estate License Defense Lawyer Whom You Can Trust
It’s vital to your case that you hire a real estate license defense lawyer as soon as you can. Without a good lawyer, you could very well lose your privilege to practice real estate. At Century Law Group, LLP, we bring over 100 years of combined experience helping individuals protect their professional licenses, among other legal necessities, in Chula Vista and throughout San Diego. Contact us to speak to a team member who can help.
