Professional Misrepresentation Carries Risk of Legal Penalties

Individuals Who Hold Themselves Out as Architects May Face Fines, Jail Time

In Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia, there are significant, adverse legal consequences to practicing architecture, attempting to practice architecture, or even claiming to be an architect without a valid architecture license.

In Maryland, a person may not practice architecture unless licensed by the Maryland State Board of Architects. Similarly, absent such a license, a person may not represent to the public by use of a title such as “architect,” “licensed architect,” or “registered architect” that he or she is authorized to practice architecture. Aperson who violates these statutory provisions is guilty of a misdemeanor and is subject to a fine of up to $3,000 and/or imprisonment of up to one year. In determining the penalty, the Board will consider the following factors: 1) the seriousness of the violation; 2) the harm caused by the violation; 3) the good faith of the violator; 4) any history of previous violations by the violator; and 5) any other relevant factors.