Contractors are permitted to work on construction projects around California. All contractors must have an official license number that allows them to work legitimately. Individuals that misuse this license number can be charged under California Business and Professions Code Section 7027.3: Fraudulent Use of a Contractor’s License Number.
You can go over the specific details of BPC 7027.3 charges today. Build up your understanding of the legal applications of this charge and the penalties for a conviction. The Simmrin Law Group can even help you review some legal defenses for BPC 7027.3 accusations.
BPC 7027.3: California’s Legal Definition
BPC 7027.3 is a fairly straightforward criminal charge for a white-collar crime. Individuals may be convicted of fraudulent use of a contractor’s license number if they purposefully and willfully:
- Use the License Number of a Contractor
- While Intending to Defraud Someone
Note that BPC 7027.3 is only one example of charges associated with contracting in California. Depending on the situation, individuals could also face charges for:
- California Business and Professions Code Section 7028: Contracting Without A License
- California Business and Professions Code Section 7028.1: Engaging In Asbestos / Underground Tank Work Without Certification
- California Business and Professions Code Section 12024.1: Misrepresentation of Charge for Service
BPC 7027.3: Examples
Refine your understanding of fraudulent use of a contractor’s license charges with these examples:
Man A wants to make some money on the side as a contractor. He doesn’t have a contractor’s license, but his father-in-law does. Man A uses his father-in-law’s license number to get a small job. He could be charged under BPC 7027.3.
Man B just started working as a contractor. He’s working with Man C – a more experienced contractor – while he builds up experience. While bidding for a job, he accidentally gives the client Man C’s license number. He may avoid a BPC 7027.3 conviction since he was not intentionally trying to defraud anyone.
Man D doesn’t want to go through the hassle of getting a contractor’s license for his contracting business. Instead, he regularly uses another contractor’s number when bidding on jobs and completing projects. The courts can prosecute Man D with fraudulent use of a contractor’s license number.
BPC 7027.3: Legal Penalties for a Conviction
The court system in California may prosecute the fraudulent use of a contractor’s license number as a misdemeanor or a felony. Felony charges are considered more serious. Generally, the following facts are examined when deciding how a BPC 7027.3 charge will be prosecuted:
- The Defendant’s Criminal History
- The Damages Experienced by the Victim
If an individual is convicted of misdemeanor BPC 7027.3 charges, they could be sentenced to:
- Fines of Up to $1,000
- Jail Time of Up to one Year
As mentioned, felony charges are typically harsher. A felony conviction for the fraudulent use of a contractor’s license number may result in:
- Fines of Up to $10,000
- Prison Time of Up to three Years
These penalties can have a tremendous impact on an individual’s life, so BPC 7027.3 charges should always be taken seriously.
BPC 7027.3: Possible Legal Defenses in California
You may be able to defend yourself from fraudulent use of a contractor’s license number charges by reaching out to a Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer. A professional lawyer can go over the facts in your case carefully to determine if the following defenses apply to you:
You Didn’t Intend to Defraud Anyone
Individuals must purposefully act to defraud a victim to be convicted under BPC 7027.3. This means that if you accidentally used another contractor’s license number you may be able to avoid a BPC 7027.3 conviction, as you were not intentionally attempting to commit any form of fraud.
You Were Forced to Use a Contractor’s License Number
You may be able to avoid BPC 7027.3 charges if you fraudulently used a contractor’s license number due to duress. If you had to use a contractor’s license number because of threats made to your life or well-being, you may be able to utilize this defense.
You Were Falsely Accused of Using a Contractor’s License Number
False accusations are sometimes made in the court system in California. You can go over the truth behind your case and any alibis you may have with your criminal defense lawyer. A legal professional may be able to prove your innocence in California.
Speak with a Criminal Defense Lawyer About BPC 7027.3 Charges
You can increase your odds of successfully resolving California Business and Professions Code Section 7027.3: Fraudulent Use of a Contractor’s License Number charges by contacting the Simmrin Law Group. You can reach us by completing our online contact form, or calling (310) 896-2723.
Start working on your case with a FREE consultation from our criminal defense lawyers.