Defending a South Carolina Engineering Board Complaint: The COA

December 10, 2017 by Robyn W. Madden

South Carolina Board of Engineering Defense Attorneys

The laws governing the practice of engineering and surveying in the State of South Carolina are complex.  Technical violations, including failure to obtain a certificate of authorization from the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulation are common.

Regardless of the nature of your pending complaint, our South Carolina Board of Engineering Defense Attorneys are here to help guide you through the process.  We will fight for your right to licensure if you are facing an application hearing,  and protect your right to continued practice if you are a licensee facing disciplinary action.

Our attorneys regularly appear before the various South Carolina LLR Boards.  Let us put our experience to work for you. Call us today to take advantage of our offer for a consultation, and learn more about how to defend a  South Carolina Board of Engineering complaint as well as what you may expect. 803.227.4254.

The South Carolina Engineering Board and the Certificate of Authorization

In South Carolina, offering to engage in the practice of engineering, for example by submitting a bid, requires you to possess a South Carolina Engineering license.

In addition to personal licensure through the Agency, a certificate of authorization in the name of the business is generally required.  Practicing without first obtaining a certificate of authorization is a fairly common violation. Although not uncommon, practicing without a COA can result in serious consequences, including public disciplinary action. Importantly, the COA required by the South Carolina Engineering Board differs from the certificate of authority issued by the South Carolina Secretary of State’s office.

Although you are not required to secure a COA if you practice in your own name and do not observe any corporate formalities, a COA will generally be required if the engineering business is set up as an LLC or LP.  The application for a COA may be obtained here. 

Defending a Charge of Practicing Without a COA

An allegation of practicing without a COA can result in public disciplinary action as well as fines. Proper preparation is critical. You have the right to have an  South Carolina engineering board attorney appear with you at your LLR disciplinary hearing.

If you have been contacted by an LLR investigator or received notice to appear before the South Carolina Board of Professional Engineers and Surveyors, we are here to help.  Call us today to learn more about the process and what you can expect.