Criminal Defense FOR Educators

Principle Four of the Licensure Code of Professional Conduct prohibits teachers and administrators from engaging in criminal activity, and the Ohio State Board of Education will seek to discipline any teacher or administrator who pleads guilty to or is convicted of a criminal offense, or who participates in a diversion program or treatment program in lieu of conviction of a criminal offense.

Certainly, if you are a teacher or an administrator charged with a criminal offense, priority number one is protecting your liberty, and to that extent, you should retain a competent criminal defense attorney to negotiate or obtain the best result possible. However, it is imperative that before you enter a guilty plea or accept an offer of diversion or treatment in lieu of conviction, you also consult with a competent education attorney, as the consequences of your criminal matter, even if it ultimately ends in a dismissal, could put you in a precarious and risky situation with the Ohio State Board of Education’s Office of Professional Conduct. Likewise, keep in mind that expungement or sealing of a record does not necessarily protect you from discipline.

At Albeit Masters, we have a combined 29 years of success in criminal and traffic defense, ranging from minor traffic offenses to very serious felony offenses. Not only are we well-versed in relevant law and savvy in the courtroom, but we are able to simultaneously strategize to put you in the best position possible with the Office of Professional Conduct.