What distinguishes a sanction from a citation?

The distinction between a sanction and a citation primarily revolves around the consequences associated with each. A sanction is a punitive measure that can include severe actions such as the suspension or revocation of a professional license. This means that if a licensee is found in violation of regulations or laws, the imposition of a sanction may lead to the potential license suspension that could affect their ability to practice.

In contrast, a citation is usually a formal notice of a violation but does not carry the same level of consequence as a sanction. It might include warnings or lesser penalties but does not typically affect the individual's license status directly. The purpose of a citation is often to inform the licensee of the violation rather than to impose severe punitive measures.

The other options suggest incorrect outcomes for sanctions or confuse the nature of citations. For instance, the notion that a sanction results in time off from work misrepresents the concept, as sanctions are official penalties rather than employment-related consequences. Offerings like refunds for fees paid do not correspond with either sanctions or citations and reflect a different aspect of real estate transactions. The idea that sanctions are exclusively for first-time offenders is also misleading, as repeated violations can lead to sanctions regardless of prior offenses. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for navigating