Did you know that a DUI can impact your ability to drive? While an arrest and jail time can reduce your driving abilities, the more immediate impact comes from the confiscation of your driver’s license. Find out what you need to know about your driver’s license and DUI charges and how they differ from criminal charges.
What Can Happen After a DUI Arrest?
There are two types of repercussions you can have for a DUI. First, you can go through criminal court proceedings based on the DUI charge. Second, you can have your license revoked immediately by the officer on the scene, which is an administrative action from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Can the DMV Really Take Your License?
Yes, the DMV administers and revokes driving privileges on state residents. Those arrested for DUI may go through a DMV hearing to have their driving privileges restored if they were, in fact, not driving under the influence. However, this hearing is not the same as that in criminal court. The hearing only sees if the arrest followed protocol and whether you should continue to have driving ability suspended. The criminal court decides guilt or innocence in the case.
Rules to Revoke a License and DUI Chemical Tests
When you get pulled over for a DUI, the officer may request that you take a chemical test. These tests include blood, breath, or urine tests to determine whether you have an intoxicating substance in your blood. If you refuse the tests offered, you can have your license suspended for one year or completely revoked for up to three years, based on former convictions.
Your License and DUI Criminal Case
Whether you get your license returned depends greatly on the criminal case. If the DMV hearing did not restore your driving privileges, an acquittal in the criminal case will reverse the DMV’s decision to keep your license. Therefore, even if things did not go well during the DMV hearing, you still have a chance, if you get acquitted in court.
Get a Defense Lawyer Who Has Your Back for Your DUI Case
Acquittals in court depend largely on the circumstances and your lawyer’s defense tactics. With Steven K. Bloom, you have someone in your corner to defend your case. Contact us today to tell us about your DUI case and see how we can help you.
