More than 7 million people have had their licenses suspended because law enforcement caught them driving under the influence. Are you one of them? In the event of a DUI license suspension situation, there are some things that you're going to need to know.
In this article, we are going to tell you what you can do to possibly prevent your license from being taken. And we're also going to cover what you need to do if your license has been suspended because of your DUI charge.
Continue reading for everything that you need to know.
1. How Do I Keep My License From Being Suspended?
The first step in trying to defend your license is the DMV hearing. You only have ten days to request a hearing, and if you fail to do so, you lose your right to the hearing. Although a DMV hearing isn't as involved as your criminal case will be, it's still a good idea to have an attorney with experience represent you at the hearing. Act quickly to get the process off on the right foot.
2. How Long Will My License Be Suspended?
In most cases, the suspension of your license will take place immediately following your DUI charges, with a temporary license to drive issued at the scene. If your attorney acts quickly and requests a DMV hearing, he can also request a "stay on your license" pending the hearing. So, in other words, no action will be taken on you license until the results of that hearing, which may be up to two months into the future.
The first time that you've been charged for drinking under the influence, your license can be suspended for up to 4 months, pending that you don't have any other infractions during the 6-month suspension period. If you've already had a previous conviction for a DUI on your record, then the suspension time may increase to 9 months and up to a year.
3. How Can I Get a Restricted License?
There are three mains steps to getting a restricted license. Keep reading for information on all three.
The first step is to enroll in the required DUI educational course that will most be part of any DUI conviction and/or suspension. For a first time DUI the required class will depend on your blood alcohol level (B.A.C.). Depending on your B.A.C. level, the classes for a first time DUI will be either a three, six or nine month class.
The second step in getting a restricted license is to obtain and provide proof to the DMV of an SR-22 (high risk insurance). Anyone who wishes to drive after a DUI suspension will need and SR22.
The third step is to get and IID (ignition interlock device) installed in your vehicle. It is true that there is a more restricted license (just to and from work and school) that doesn't required and IID, but with and IID installation you can drive without limitations.
4. How Do I Prepare for Court?
You should take some steps with your legal team when you're preparing for your court date or DMV hearing. You should know that there are specific strategies that you can use to ensure that your license isn't taken from you during your department of motor vehicle hearing. Your team will help to develop a strong defense to fight your case.
Get Legal Help After DUI License Suspended
Now that you know all you need to know about a DUI license suspended, it's time to begin preparing for your court date. All of the things that we've listed above will help you to lessen the time that your license is suspended. Or it will help you understand what to do to prevent it from being suspended.
If you're looking for a team to represent you during your case, contact our experienced attorneys at your earliest convenience.