The Role of The California Bureau of Automotive Repair
In California, the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) seeks to protect consumers and the public from fraud and incompetence in the automotive industry. The BAR does this by regulating auto repair shops, smog check stations, and even mediating automotive repair complaints. Whether you are seeking an automotive repair license for a shop or for you individually, you will have to be approved by the BAR to be licensed.
Being awarded an automotive repair license comes with several requirements and responsibilities as outlined by the Bureau of Automotive Repair Laws and Regulations Reference Book. The BAR has the ability to deny, suspend, and revoke an automotive repair license if the licensee is deemed to have committed acts of professional misconduct or committed crimes. If you have specific legal questions about an issue relating to your automotive repair license, then it is essential that you speak to an experienced automotive repair license defense attorney right away.
How Proper Billing Can Help Defend Against A Claim of Fraud
The BAR monitors the licenses of over 35,000 automotive repair shops across the state of California. When there is a dispute with an automotive repair shop, consumers are given the ability to make a complaint online through a simple form. Once this complaint is made, the BAR can launch an investigation to determine if the complaint has merit. This investigation can result in a discipline related to the complaint or can even result in criminal charges.
If an automotive repair shop is accused of committing fraud on a customer by not actually replacing or repairing certain parts, then an inspection of the vehicle can determine what was and was not completed. A further inspection of the automotive repair shop’s inventory and billing records can determine if the repair shop was operating legally. What happens if a licensee does not maintain proper billing records and does not use proper billing practices?
Well, the BAR can formally charge you with a complaint which can also lead to criminal charges for any conduct that is prohibited by law. Good recordkeeping is critical not only to operating a successful business but to your defense in case you are accused of any wrongdoing. If you have questions about how you can improve your business practices or have other legal questions, call us at SJ Harris Law Office to help!
SJ Harris Law Free Consultation
At S.J. Harris Law Office, we offer all new clients a FREE 30-minute consultation. We realize that automotive repair professionals who are facing discipline against their licenses require representation that values discretion and privacy. Anything discussed during a consultation will be protected by attorney-client privilege even if you don’t hire us to represent you further. At S.J. Harris Law, we focus on preserving three things; your license, reputation, and future. Let our experience go to work for you today. Call us at (310) 361-8585 or contact us online for a free consultation.
