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Practice Of Real EstateLicense LawHARD

Broker Diana holds a Massachusetts real estate broker license and has been operating Sunrise Realty for 12 years. The Board of Registration receives a complaint that Diana commingled client escrow funds with her personal business operating account. After an investigation, the Board finds the allegation substantiated. Under MGL Chapter 112, which of the following correctly describes the Board's authority in response to this finding?

Correct Answer

D) The Board may suspend or revoke Diana's license, impose civil fines, and refer the matter for criminal prosecution if warranted

Under MGL Chapter 112, the Board of Registration of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons has broad disciplinary authority, including the power to suspend or revoke a license, impose civil fines, and refer matters for criminal prosecution when warranted. Commingling of client escrow funds with personal or business funds is one of the most serious violations under Massachusetts real estate law. The Board is not limited to written reprimands for first offenses involving such serious misconduct, and its authority to act is not dependent on a court order for suspensions of any duration.

Answer Options
A
The Board may suspend Diana's license for up to 30 days only, as longer suspensions require a Superior Court order
B
The Board may only issue a written reprimand for a first offense of commingling, reserving license suspension for repeat violations
C
The Board may revoke Diana's license but may not impose any monetary fines, as financial penalties require a separate civil court action
D
The Board may suspend or revoke Diana's license, impose civil fines, and refer the matter for criminal prosecution if warranted

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Related Topics & Key Terms

Key Terms:

license_categoriesdisciplinary_actioncomminglingboard_authorityescrow_funds

Related Concepts

Antitrust violations in real estate occur when competing brokerages or agents engage in practices that restrain trade, reduce competition, or harm consumers through collusion. These violations are governed by the Sherman Antitrust Act and can result in severe penalties.

Broker supervision is the legal obligation of a designated or managing broker to oversee and be accountable for the real estate activities of all salespersons and associate brokers operating under their license.

Commingling is the illegal act of mixing client funds with a broker's personal or business operating funds, while conversion is the unauthorized use of client funds for the broker's own benefit. Both are serious violations that can result in license revocation.

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