TL;DR

Contesting a TABC violation may lead to a hearing before an administrative law judge, who issues a proposal that the Commission can adopt or modify. Hire counsel, gather evidence, and decide whether to accept a settlement or proceed to a hearing. Appeals are possible but limited to the administrative record.

Handling TABC Hearings and Appeals: Tips from a Texas Liquor License Lawyer

Disputes with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) can escalate quickly, and should not be taken lightly. Licensees who receive a notice of violation may be offered a settlement (known as an agreed order) or the option to contest the charges in a hearing.

These hearings are conducted at the State Office of Administrative Hearings (SOAH) and follow a formal process: notice, pre‑hearing conference, administrative hearing, a proposal for decision from the judge, and a final order issued by the Commission.

TABC hearings are legal proceedings and should be approached seriously. Licensees should retain legal counsel immediately to evaluate the facts, prepare evidence and witness testimony, negotiate with TABC attorneys, and make informed decisions about accepting settlements or proceeding to a contested hearing. Appeals to district court are possible but are limited to the administrative record. Meaning, new evidence cannot be introduced later.

Common defenses may involve challenging the credibility of the evidence, showing procedural violations by TABC, or presenting mitigating factors. Early preparation and documentation (such as training logs, incident reports, and surveillance footage) can significantly improve your chances of a favorable outcome.

Protect Your TABC License with Experienced Legal Guidance

At Castroland Legal, we represent Texas businesses in contested TABC hearings and appeals. Whether you're evaluating a settlement offer or preparing for a hearing, our attorneys provide experienced, practical guidance to protect your license and your livelihood. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.