How Should I Prepare for My First DMV Hearing after a DUI Arrest?
We rely on cars to get to work, run errands, and ferry the kids to school and back. Without access to a reliable vehicle, it can feel like you’re trapped, unable to tackle the tasks that are important to leading a functional and fulfilling life.
Unfortunately, after a DUI arrest, your driving privileges will be hanging in the balance. The moment you’re formally charged, your license will be revoked, and you will be left with just 10 days behind the wheel.
However, you will also be allowed to fight to have your license reinstated. By requesting a hearing with the Florida Department of Motor Vehicles, there’s always a chance that you could avoid the hardships associated with losing this important privilege.
In this article, we discuss what you should expect in this hearing and how you can prepare to improve your chances of achieving a favorable outcome.
What Is a DMV Hearing?
When you’re arrested and charged with a DUI, you will have 10 days after the incident to apply for a DMV administrative review hearing. During this hearing, whether you can retain your driving privileges while your case is pending will be decided. If you’re successful, you will be able to continue driving and the suspension will be struck off your driving record.
To make this decision, the Department will look to determine whether the suspension was lawful. You can request either an informal hearing wherein only evidence provided by the arresting officers will be reviewed, or a formal hearing wherein you will have a chance to present your own proof and testimony. Your license will be automatically suspended if you choose not to—or fail to—attend either hearing.
How Should I Prepare for My Hearing?
Going into the hearing without a game plan could spell disaster for your chances of retaining your license. Additionally, if you were subjected to chemical tests that confirm you were under the influence, the suspension of your license will likely be upheld.
An attorney can be your best asset in those crucial 10 days after the arrest. He or she can investigate what happened, gather evidence, and help prepare you for your hearing to ensure that you enter talks with a strong strategy in mind. A criminal defense lawyer can also assist with your criminal case by helping you build a compelling defense.
Speak to a Palm Beach Gardens DUI Lawyer Today
If you’re facing a DUI charge, it’s important to act quickly. With just a narrow window of time to retain your driving privileges, the sooner you reach out to an attorney, the more prepared you will be for your DMV hearing and the criminal proceedings to follow.
Attorney Todd A. Kawecki is intimately familiar with Florida’s legal system, arming him with the knowledge and experience to help you achieve a favorable outcome at any stage. Reach out to us today at 772-485-4500 or jump to our contact page HERE to request a free case review with a Florida DUI lawyer.