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COSMETOLOGISTS
We're Here To Help Cosmetologists
Cosmetology is a rewarding career that allows you to make people feel their best. In addition to giving clients confidence they can't get on their own, you listen to their life's problems and successes. Your clients trust you with their looks and safety.
Cosmetology school tuition isn't the only thing that's expensive; you'll also need thousands of hours of training and/or apprenticeship. You've successfully completed long apprenticeship hours. We know how much your cosmetology license means to you.
Beauty services and procedures can seriously harm clients if done improperly, so Virginia requires licensure to make sure you're properly trained. You can succeed in your career with a license; proper education and all these requirements. But licensure can come with problems if a client or other party files a complaint. Your license is too important to lose.
In What Cases Can My License Be Revoked?
The reasons for filing a complaint can vary, and not all of them will result in the loss of your license. Here are some complaints you should pay attention to:
• Sanitation issues
• Falsification of qualifications
• Non-approved products or procedures
• Overcharging clients
• Negligence or incompetence
• Neglect or abuse of any kind
What is the Disciplinary Process Like?
In Virginia, complaints against cosmetologists are handled by the Virginia Board for Barbers and Cosmetology. Attorney Tori Bramble and her professional license defense team will walk you through Virginia's procedures and help you understand your situation. The process includes the following steps: (submitting a complaint; reviewing it; investigating it; conducting a disciplinary hearing; deciding penalties; and appealing.
Any licensed cosmetologist believed to have acted inappropriately or violated Virginia’s professional standards can have a complaint filed against them with the Board. An angry coworker or dissatisfied client can file a complaint or someone you don't know. Before the Board can review a complaint, it needs to get detailed information about the incident and any supporting evidence through a written complaint filed by mail or online.
Reviews and Investigations
Cosmetology boards or other relevant licensing boards will review the complaint to see if it falls under their jurisdiction and if there's enough evidence to investigate. It's possible they'll ask the person who reported you for more info.
A Board investigation will begin if it believes the complaint has merit. The investigator may collect evidence, interview the parties, and gather relevant records and documents. You'll be notified about the complaint at this point, probably in writing, even if you're already aware informally.
Disciplinary Hearings
When the Board of Cosmetology investigation finds misconduct or violations of regulations, a formal hearing or disciplinary process may be started against you. It'll be your chance to present your case and provide evidence or witnesses to defend yourself. Cosmetology boards usually set rules and procedures for the process. You shouldn't prepare for or attend the hearing alone. Let Attorney Tori Bramble and her professional license defense firm help you navigate Virginia's complex timelines and requirements.
Board Decisions & Penalties
The Board of cosmetology will make a decision about your license after reviewing the evidence and hearing both sides. If the board finds you guilty of misconduct, they can hand down disciplinary penalties, sometimes combining penalties.
Probation is one of the most common penalties. You can still work as a cosmetologist during probation, but you may need supervision or education to start working independently again.
Another common penalty is license suspension, which means your license is suspended for a while. You might have to do more if your license is suspended because of the incident.
You could also have your license revoked, which would stop you from practicing cosmetology.
Besides that, the Board can hit you with a monetary fine to discourage you from committing another professional violation.
Our Cosmetologist License Defense Team Is Here To Help
You don't want a client complaint to put your cosmetology license at risk. We know licensing law. We'll help you gather evidence and witnesses and present your case to the licensing board.
It's not worth losing your cosmetology license if you don't get help. Contact us online or call 703-740-1129 and find out how we can help.