Citation Orders
A citation is an administrative action, usually including a fine, for violations of the laws and regulations enforced by the Board. Citations are not formal disciplinary actions, but they are matters of public record. A list of citable violations and the range of fines can be found in the California Code of Regulations, Title 16, Division 13.1, Article 9, Section 1397.50.
A citation and fine order contains a description of the violation, an Order of Abatement which directs the subject to discontinue the illegal activity, a fine and procedures for appeal. The amount of a fine is based on the gravity of the violation, the intent of the subject, and the history of previous violations. Payment of a fine does not constitute an admission of the violation charged, but serves as a satisfactory resolution of the citation and fine order. If you have received a citation you may:
- a. Pay the fine and comply with the Order of Abatement. The case will be closed.
- b. Request an informal conference if you feel the citation and fine is unwarranted or there are verifiable mitigating circumstances. The Board may uphold the action, reduce the fine if the evidence supports reduction, or dismiss the action. A request for an Informal Conference must be made in writing to the Board within ten (10) days after receipt of a citation.
- c. Request a formal hearing before an Administrative Law Judge. A request for a formal administrative hearing must be made in writing to the Board within thirty (30) days after issuance of a citation.
Failure to contest a citation within the time periods set forth above shall be considered a waiver of your right to appeal a citation.
A copy of the Laws and Regulations Relating to the Practice of Psychology, which contain the regulations relating to the citation and fine program, is available here.
