What is the effect of a certified copy of a conviction regarding disciplinary actions?

A certified copy of a conviction is recognized as conclusive evidence of that conviction. This means that when a regulatory board or disciplinary authority reviews a certified copy, it does not need to question or investigate the validity of the conviction further; the documented conviction stands as an established fact. In the context of disciplinary actions within professions such as embalming, this conclusive evidence can significantly impact the outcome of a disciplinary review, leading to potential sanctions or consequences based on the conviction itself.

The nature of a certified copy ensures that it is an official document, typically issued by the court, which verifies the details of the conviction. Therefore, it carries substantial weight in legal and regulatory proceedings. The other options do not reflect the legal significance of a certified copy—leniency, disputes, or personal testimony do not override the authority of official court documentation. Thus, recognizing it as conclusive evidence is key for anyone involved in regulatory matters.