FAA Enforcement Defense Lawyer
Donald Brigham is more than an avid pilot – he is also a Panel Attorney serving those enrolled in the Legal Services Plan of the Aircraft Owners & Pilots Association (AOPA) Pilot Protection Program. For many pilots, this is their first and best line of defense against FAA enforcement actions.
Services Provided
The Brigham Law Firm provides representation of airmen and air agencies in FAA enforcement actions and appeals before the NTSB. Those services include representation in the following areas:
- State and local government actions
- Aircraft accidents and incidents
- Insurance disputes
- Contract review for purchase, lease and sale of aircraft;
- Representation in matters relating to FAA Regulations:
- Part 43 Maintenance, rebuilding & alterations
- Part 61 Certification of pilots and instructors
- Part 67 Medical standards and certifications
- Part 91 General operating and flight rules
- Part 119 Certification of air carriers and commercial operators
- Part 135 Commuter and on demand operations
- Part 141 Schools and other certificated agencies
- Part 142 Training centers
Infractions Happen to the Best of Us
Flying keeps us young, it keeps us learning, and it expands our view of the world.
But even highly experienced pilots can experience information overload when climbing to an amended clearance. Even a momentary distraction can inadvertently cause a deviation from an ATC instruction. Then you have the attention of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
How to Respond to the FAA
The first sign of possible enforcement action against your certificate may be a request to call the tower, an FAA Supervisor, or receiving an FAA Letter of Investigation.
When you receive this request or letter there is often the urge to respond right away. While cooperation can be key to a successful outcome, responding without the advice of an AOPA Panel Attorney could be a big mistake. Instead, allow a qualified FAA enforcement defense lawyer to prevent you from unwittingly making any immediate statement to the FAA that may prejudice your case.
Representation is Vital
While transcripts and radar tracks may show a violation of FAA Regulations, there are ways to mitigate the impact on you – methods that Don Brigham has used effectively over the years. Time is critical in this matter as transcripts and radar tracks must be preserved.
For instance, in lieu of suspension or fine, your panel attorney may be able to negotiate a lesser penalty depending upon the evidence. . Perhaps a certain period of time has elapsed since the violation, or the deviation did not create a “safety of flight” issue. Using these and other tactics requires finesse and an understanding of how to approach the FAA in each case.
Protect Your Flying Privileges
When a flight doesn’t go exactly as planned, allow Don Brigham’s experience and expertise to guide you through the winding world of FAA enforcement actions. Your flying privileges are too important to navigate solo through such an obstacle course.
CASE STUDY: Rescuing an Airman’s Certificate
THE CASE: An elderly pilot rented a light sport airplane from a local airport. Upon takeoff, a crosswind caused the airplane to depart the runway and strike a runway marker sign. Though there was little damage, following the incident, the FAA initiated an enforcement action and delivered a Letter of Investigation to the airman.
THE CHALLENGE: Following the FAA’s investigation, it notified the airman of their intent to revoke his certificate.
OUR SOLUTION: The airman immediately contacted the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association for representation, a benefit of his membership in AOPA. The client retained me as his panel attorney under the AOPA Pilot Protection Program. Upon reviewing the results of the investigation I reached out to the FAA and successfully negotiated a check ride with an FAA examiner instead of an action to immediately revoke his certificate.
THE OUTCOME: I further counseled the airman on how to prepare for the check ride and document his preparation for review by the FAA. As a result, the airman successfully completed the check ride and his certificate remained intact.
An Avid Pilot
for Your Defense
"I was drawn to aviation not just for the freedom and adventure of flying, but also the rewarding challenge and accomplishment that each flight offers. I enjoy that same challenge when it comes to matters of law.
I don’t want to see anyone in the close-knit world we call the aviation community lose that privilege over a rule infraction.
When you find yourself in need of aviation legal advice, please don’t hesitate to contact me. I would be happy to evaluate your situation and recommend a course of action.”