Convicted Sex Offender Fights To Keep Real Estate License

Maryland's top court considers whether decision to revoke license was fair

A longtime real estate agent who is a convicted sex offender is fighting the decision to revoke his professional license, arguing that his crimes were unrelated to his work as a real estate broker.

His case, argued Wednesday before the state Court of Appeals, could have broader implications for licensing boards in various fields. The opinion could instruct the panels on how to evaluate the many factors that state law says they must consider when granting or revoking the professional licenses of convicted felons.

"The broader issue is what, if any, limitations are there … to regulate those who hold a license?" said University of Baltimore law professor Byron Warnken, who has no connection to the case.

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