Empowering You With Our Knowledge
Our attorneys understand when faced with a legal issues, you have many questions, and we want to provide answers to some of the most common questions you may have. By providing this information will help to mitigate stress and fears.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens to my teacher certification if I’m convicted of a crime?
Minor criminal offenses do not necessarily affect your certification as a teacher, though they may hinder your ability to find a job. However, the Florida Statute 1012 Section 315 includes several crimes that disqualify you from a Florida Educator Certificate. These include:
- Sexual misconduct
- Luring or enticing a child
- Abuse or neglect of a minor
- Elder abuse and neglect
- Manslaughter
- Homicide
- Aggravated assault and/or battery
- Certain robbery offenses
Anyone registered as a sex offender is disqualified from receiving a teaching certificate.
What do schools do when a teacher is charged with a crime?
Criminal activity involving a teacher or certified educator may prompt the school board to initiate an investigation or disciplinary proceedings. The Department of Education might impose sanctions on your certificate or revoke it. Teachers have the right to appear at an administrative hearing with their defense attorney to present their case for keeping their teaching certification and their position.
Do I have to self-report a criminal charge to my school?
According to Florida’s Rule 6A-10.081, teachers must report any arrests or charges involving controlled substances or the abuse of a child within 48 hours. This is not an admission of guilt or any formal plea. If you do not self-report, the Florida Department of Education may open an investigation that could lead to disciplinary proceedings.
Call The Law Offices of Steve Rossi, P.A. Today
Our attorneys understand the stress, fears and impacts legal problems can have on our clients’ life, livelihood and future, that is why we will be with you every step of the way. Call us at 888-674-2051 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation with us.