How to Defend Electrician Licenses in Connecticut

Electrician Defense From a Professional License Attorney

Electricians work hard to obtain and maintain their electrician licenses. But what happens when that license is in jeopardy? On this page, you can learn more about protecting yourself and your license if you face disciplinary action.

Becoming an Electrician

Working to become an electrician takes years of training, apprenticing, and honing the skills to be successful. Electrical work is a major part of society and the operation of hospitals, schools, homes and other institutions. In Connecticut, an electrician must complete: 

The application.

An apprenticeship or 8,000 hours of electrical-related work or combination of education and experience in electrical work.

Apply for the journey person exam within 30 days of completion of the apprenticeship.

Provide proof of apprenticeship and exam.

The hands-on experience that is required to be licensed with the Department of Consumer Protection means that the licensee must complete 8,000 hours or four years in training or education. This training can be done at a technical college and working with a licensed contracting company to learn the trade, or by joining an apprenticeship program. Both of these options satisfy the training requirements. Electricians are expected to learn safety, how to use tools and equipment, residential and commercial repair and maintenance, wiring, cable installation and repair, and basic knowledge of other relevant trades. Knowledge of these requirements can help explain the reasons for disciplinary action. If an electrician cannot perform with the minimum skills and knowledge and professionalism required, they could be disciplined. 

Causes of Disciplinary Action

Electricians work hard to become licensed and make a living doing this trade and helping people in major ways. However, electricians can face serious consequences after allegations are made against them. Some of these allegations include: 

Negligence in inspecting, surveying, constructing, or designing.

Improper license for the work that was done.

Abandoning a project before completion.

Misallocating funds.

Not obtaining the proper work permits.

Design flaws or defects.

Negligence that results in serious harm to others.

Failing to comply with safety protocols.

Some allegations against electricians could be entirely a mistake that was made, with no ill will on the part of the electrician. Electrical work can be very dangerous and harmful to others if it is not done correctly and in accordance with protocols. Because of this, negligence or incompetent work could be a reason for loss of license. 

Facing Disciplinary Action

The Department of Consumer Protection takes complaints and allegations very seriously. For an allegation to hold up against a licensee, there must be evidence that supports it. This evidence is found during an investigation stage in the process, in which an investigator can look into an electrician’s professional or personal life, records, and finances. The investigation could also include interviews, subpoenas that demand the production of information, collecting documents, and preparing reports. If the licensee wants to dispute the facts found during the investigation, they have the right to request a formal administrative hearing before an administrative judge. Licensees have the right to consult counsel before making any statements to an investigator or going before an administrative judge. 

If you have been notified of a complaint made against you and your electrical license, it may be critical for you to speak with an attorney so you can understand all of your options. In difficult and overwhelming circumstances, some may feel they can explain away or ignore the allegations, but they must be dealt with in order to continue working under the license. If you are facing administrative discipline due to a complaint about your work as an electrician, call our office to speak with an attorney today.