A SMOG station will stay busy from the time they open until they close. You can browse some nifty lists of SMOG stations in Los Angeles. The work is important to the environment. This work helps millions of vehicles pass the states’ emissions tests.
The city of Los Angeles can be a tough place to run a business. The work needs to be done with precision. Maintaining good records when running a SMOG station is important. There is very little room for error.
If you receive a citation from the BAR, it is not to be ignored. Licensing means that you must deal with it; you cannot lose your license and still operate. To be cited is no small thing. It can have serious consequences. A citation may include fines, probation, suspension of testing privileges or even a business license getting revoked. The business relies on the business license to remain in good standing. This can impact the SMOG station operator as well. It is important to answer a notice from the BAR promptly and submit the appropriate documents that are needed in response to the BAR. The good news is you have rights, and hopefully the facts are on your side. The bad news is that the Bureau has expensive state-funded lawyers who do this FOR A LIVING and you generally our outgunned. For you this is a “new experience.” For the lawyers at the Bureau of Automotive Repair, this is a “Tuesday.”
What If You Get a BAR Citation
A citation from the BAR is a legal matter. What should you do?
- Step 1: Understand why you received the notice. Understand the allegation. It’s best not to put it off, and it will simply go away. It is important to respond promptly. Consider identifying lawyer who defends smog technicians and shops. A guy who understands how the Bureau of Automotive Repair actually works.
- Step 2: Get all records and documentation about the accusation, citation, letter (whatever you want to call it). Collect inspection logs, test data, repair records and other relevant paperwork.
- Step 3: Connect with an attorney who can represent you. It is important to have someone who specializes in the Bureau of Automotive Repair. Not just a generic “lawyer.”
If you speak on your behalf, it can make matters worse. As they say “Everything you say can and will be used against you.” It is best to have someone speak for you with legal experience. An experienced lawyer can assist in interpreting what’s going on. An attorney can communicate with BAR investigators. A SMOG defense attorney can help you craft an appropriate response. An SMOG defense attorney can help represent you at the hearings and help mitigate or eliminate penalties. Keeping your license is essential to your business. Fight to keep it!