Administrative Law

Administrative Law in Brownsville and Cameron County

When your livelihood, license, or rights are challenged by a government agency, you need an attorney who understands administrative procedure. The Michael Gonzalez Law Firm represents individuals and small businesses in administrative hearings and appeals across Texas.

Matters We Handle

• Professional license defense (TDLR, TMB, BON, and other licensing boards)
• Driver’s license suspension and ALR hearings
• Liquor license and TABC matters
• Unemployment insurance appeals
• Government agency disputes
• Permit denials and appeals

Why Administrative Cases Are Different

Administrative hearings are not regular court proceedings. The rules of evidence are relaxed, the burden of proof is often lower, and the agency itself frequently has a built-in advantage. Strict procedural deadlines apply — miss a deadline by a day and your right to challenge can be lost. Understanding the State Office of Administrative Hearings (SOAH) and the specific rules of the agency involved is critical to defending your interests.

How We Work

We start by reviewing the agency’s notice carefully — what action they propose, what facts they’re alleging, what authority they’re invoking, and what deadlines apply. From there we build a defense strategy: factual response, legal arguments, and witness preparation if a contested hearing is needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s an ALR hearing?
An Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing is a separate proceeding from a DWI criminal case. After a DWI arrest, you have only 15 days to request an ALR hearing or your driver’s license is automatically suspended. The ALR hearing addresses whether the suspension is lawful — based on probable cause, the breath/blood test, and procedural compliance.

Can I appeal an agency decision?
Most agency decisions can be appealed — first administratively (a motion for rehearing or appeal within the agency) and then to district court if needed. The deadlines are short and unforgiving, typically 20 to 30 days.

Do I need a lawyer for an administrative hearing?
You’re not required to have one, but agencies have lawyers, and the rules of administrative procedure are technical. Going in unrepresented when your professional license, business license, or driver’s license is at stake puts a lot at risk.

Free Consultation

Call (956) 572-6792 to discuss your administrative law matter. Time matters — these cases often have tight deadlines.