When a DBPR complaint is filed the case moves through an investigation process before reaching the hearing stage with significant legal consequences to your Florida contractor license.
This is where:
Evidence is evaluated
Violations are argued
And your contractor license is directly at risk
“At the hearing stage, how you present your documentation, explanations, and timeline can directly influence how your case is evaluated. Zeyna Kafrouni, Former DBPR Construction Prosecutor Perspective.
In some cases, a DBPR complaint may be resolved early, and contractors may be able to continue to work with investigation pending, depending on the facts and how the matter is handled before the hearing.
Hearing Stage
(You are here)
Formal & Informal DBPR Hearings for Florida Contractors
Understanding your options, strategy, and risk exposure at the hearing stage
Informal Hearings
(Facts Not Disputed)
An informal hearing is conducted before the Construction Industry Licensing Board when the contractor does not dispute the material facts and may present mitigation.
Strategic Reality
The Board is not just listening — it is evaluating credibility, responsibility, and risk
Documentation is not just submitted — it is interpreted in context
Early concessions can limit flexibility later in the case
This is where penalties are shaped, reduced, or expanded
Formal Hearings
(Facts Disputed)
A formal hearing is held before an Administrative Law Judge at DOAH when material facts are disputed and legal arguments are presented.
Strategic Reality
It functions like a controlled litigation process
The Administrative Law Judge is focused on evidence, credibility, and legal sufficiency
Weak documentation or inconsistent testimony can undermine otherwise viable defenses
Strategic positioning here can influence settlement leverage and final outcomes
Administrative Complaint
Legal Review
Legal Review
Administrative Complaint
Hearing State (You are Here)
Facing a DBPR Hearing
If your case has reached the hearing stage, the decisions made now can directly affect your contractor license.
Zeyna Kafrouni is a former Senior DBPR prosecutor in the construction unit, with 7 years of experience handling these cases from the inside. That perspective now guides how your defense is evaluated and presented.
Confidential . Statewide Representation
Frequently Asked Questions
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The decision depends on whether the material facts are disputed, the available defenses, and how the case is positioned.
In many cases, this choice can influence how the case develops and what options remain available later.
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In some circumstances, yes — but timing and procedural posture are important.
As a case progresses, the ability to change paths may become more limited.
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After the hearing, the Board may issue a Final Order or review a Recommended Order issued by the Administrative Law Judge.
Outcomes can include dismissal, fines, probation, or other disciplinary action affecting the contractor’s license.
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Contractors are often given the opportunity to present information, but statements made during the process can become part of the record.
A structured and well-prepared approach is often important depending on the circumstances.
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In some cases, a matter may be resolved before a hearing through settlement discussions or other procedural steps.
How the case is handled early can influence whether it proceeds to a hearing.
Other Resources Available for Contractors
IMPORTANT LEGAL NOTICE: This publication is for general informational purposes only. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney–client relationship. Regulatory matters are governed by Chapters 455, 489, and 120, Florida Statutes, the Florida Administrative Code, and related Construction Industry Licensing Board rules. Outcomes depend on specific facts, procedural posture, and applicable law.