Illinois department of financial and professional regulation license search

Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) Licensing and Compliance

At the Chicago law firm of 1818, we provide legal representation for individuals and businesses regarding licenses and other regulatory matters under the authority of the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. We assist clients with getting licenses and complying with Illinois laws and regulations. We also advocate on behalf of clients whose license is being threatened with suspension or revocation.

Typical IDFPR Disciplinary Process

• Complaint1
• Investigation2
• Conference3
• Settlement4
• Formal Hearing5
• Appeal6

Summary of the IDFPR Disciplinary Process   

Depending on the severity of the allegations, the type of license, and many other factors, this process may be slightly altered, or certain steps may be skipped.

Complaint

The majority of investigations initiates from a complaint regarding an IDFPR licensee by a consumer. Licensees should make every attempt to work with their customers to prevent IDFPR complaints.

Investigation

Don’t Panic – Call an Attorney.  Investigations begin with an IDFPR investigator contacting the licensee. Using your attorney to work with an investigator to provide facts and evidence early can be an efficient and cost-effective way to resolve licensing disputes quickly and confidentially. However, if you are not adequately prepared or represented, the investigation can progress into an expensive nightmare.

Conference

An IDFPR “informal” conference is not at all informal or exploratory. It can result in very serious ramifications to your license, including censure and suspension. These conferences can also lead to very positive results such as consent orders, restorations of licenses, and even dismissal of complaints.

Settlement

Following an informal conference, the goal should be to reach a settlement or consent agreement.  Ideally a case would be dismissed, however, IDFPR may seek other types of discipline including an Administrative Warning, Reprimand, Probation, License Suspension, License Revocation or other alternatives.

Formal Hearing

If you have no choice but to proceed to a hearing, a Hearing Officer or Administrative Law Judge will conduct the hearing.  While a Hearing Officer does not have the full power of a Circuit Court judge, their rulings carry great weight and the process should be taken very seriously. You’ll want to attend your hearing with your attorney.

Appeal

If IDFPR issues a final order with which you disagree, your next option is to appeal to the Circuit Court.  Illinois law allows IDFPR licensees the opportunity to challenge IDFPR decisions. An administrative review is not an opportunity to reargue a case, as the appeal does not allow new or different evidence. An administrative review looks instead at whether the law was followed, the evidence was properly weighed, and the correct rules and procedures applied during the proceedings. 

Our Legal Services for IDFPR Licensees

At 1818, we counsel and represent individuals and businesses regulated by IDFPR, including:

Why You Need a Lawyer for an IDFPR Investigation or Enforcement Action

Illinois has numerous laws and administrative regulations that apply to licensing and established standards of conduct for professions. IDFPR is responsible for enforcing those laws and regulations. More than 100 professions and businesses are licensed by this one agency. Licensing laws and regulations are extremely complex. Issues that arise under those laws are often complicated both factually and legally. Attempting to represent yourself before IDFPR — or drawing a conclusion on your own about how a rule applies to you — can lead to a disastrous result, including potential license suspension or license revocation.

If you are contacted by IDFPR about a licensing issue or a complaint — or if you have a concern about an IDFPR licensing matter — speaking with a lawyer who is familiar with IDFPR and government agencies is essential. With your lawyer, you will develop a strategy to defend your license and make sure you are in full compliance with all legal requirements.

Schedule Your Free Consultation — Flat Fees Available

There is no charge for your initial meeting with 1818. We will listen carefully to all the facts, explain the legal issues and ramifications, and thoroughly explore all options and strategies for resolving the matter favorably. In the first meeting, we will also explain the legal fees associated with representing you. In some cases, we charge by the hour, but for many IDFPR cases, we provide representation based on one flat fee.

IDFPR Frequently Asked Questions

How do you perform an IDFPR license lookup?

The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation website allows you to look up information about doctors, roofers, dentists, security guards and almost 100 other professions. Search for an IDFPR license.

What is the IDFPR license renewal process?

Many licensees can use the IDFPR website to renew their licenses. All licensees should ensure that their state taxes and child support are fully paid. In addition, some licensees may need to report being current on CE requirements.

What is a professional licensing agency?

In Illinois, IDFPR is the licensing body for almost 100 different professions in Illinois. Most professions including physicians, nurses, pharmacists’ physical therapists, dentists, veterinarians, detectives, cosmetologists, barbers, engineers, accountants, architects, and many more are licensed through IDFPR.

How do I contact IDFPR?

To contact a specific board or department within IDFPR, you should visit the IDFPR website and start with the Professional Regulation tab. This agency regulates banks, financial institutions, and dozens of professional licensees.

Which businesses are regulated by IDFPR?

Pawnbrokers, banks, credit unions, and currency exchanges are also regulated by IDFPR. View the full list of professions that are regulated on the IDFPR website.

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