If a business disagrees with the penalties imposed as a result of a TABC audit, it has the right to file an appeal with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission. The first step in the appeal process is to carefully review the audit findings and the penalties imposed. The business must determine the specific reasons for the penalties, such as violations related to sales records, employee training, or alcohol service practices. A TABC attorney can help the business assess the validity of the penalties and develop a strategy to contest them. The attorney can assist in gathering additional evidence to support the business’s case, such as employee training logs, updated operational procedures, or proof of corrective actions taken since the audit. If the business believes that the penalties are disproportionate or that the audit findings are based on inaccurate information, the attorney can represent the business in hearings with the TABC, where they can present a defense and challenge the penalties. The attorney will also negotiate with the TABC to reduce fines, shorten suspension periods, or propose alternative resolutions, such as implementing additional compliance measures or agreeing to a probationary period. If the business is unable to reach a favorable resolution with the TABC, the attorney can assist in filing an appeal with a higher administrative body or seeking further legal action. The goal is to protect the business’s interests and minimize the impact of the penalties on its operations.