A DUI case is not just a criminal case, there is also an administrative matter concerning your driver’s license. The rule is that when a person is arrested for DUI, their license is automatically revoked. This means you are not legally allowed to drive, and we all know being unable to get where you need to go can create a real hardship. Fortunately there are steps you can take to fight the revocation of your license, but you only have a limited time to do so after your DUI arrest.
The first ten days after a DUI arrest are the most critical. It is within this time frame that you must seek an administrative review of the loss of your driver’s license. This does not mean you will have a hearing this soon, but if you do not ask for one within the first ten days after your arrest you will not be allowed to do so later. Here are some things you need to know about asking for a hardship license, and what you will be permitted to do if one is granted:
- Written request for review of your license suspension has to be made within ten days of an arrest, if not, you will lose your license during your case.
- A limited right to drive will likely be granted if this is your first offense. If you are facing a subsequent DUI there are additional requirements you may have to meet before being granted a hardship license. This might include going to drug and/or alcohol treatment, and receiving a positive recommendation for a limited license.
- A limited license usually gives the driver the right to drive to and from school, to and from work, and to and from church.
Contact one of our DUI attorneys to be sure you do not miss the deadline to ask for a provisional license. We can help with this part of your case as well as develop an effective defense to the criminal charges against you. Many times the information gathered at the administrative hearing concerning your driver’s license comes in handy in your criminal case, and so it makes sense to let an experienced defense attorney take on both tasks for you.
If you have been charged with DUI, call our office to speak with a qualified criminal defense attorney. We help people charged with all sorts of traffic violations in Stuart and the Treasure Coast. Call today to schedule an appointment.