Sonora Suspended Driver’s License Lawyer
Fighting to Keep You on the Road in Tuolumne County
One of the most devastating consequences of a DUI arrest is losing your driving privileges. At The Law Office of Charles B. Smith, we understand how important it is that you maintain the ability to drive to work and school. Our Sonora suspended driver’s license attorney is here to help you challenge the charges that have been brought against you.
Call (209) 231-6506 today to discuss your rights and options with our knowledgeable defense lawyer, or contact us online.
DUI Administrative Suspensions in CA
In California, there are two types of license suspensions that can result from DUI charges. The first is issued from the DMV and is known as an administrative suspension. This type of suspension is triggered immediately following an arrest for DUI. Typically, the arresting officer will take away the individual’s driver’s license immediately and provide a slip of paper that serves as a temporary license.
Regardless of whether the officer collects the license or not, the DMV will send a notification of the administrative license suspension through the mail. The individual has 10 days to request a hearing to fight the suspension. Failure to file for a hearing before the deadline, or losing at the hearing, will result in an automatic license suspension that will begin 30 days following the arrest.
The length of the administrative suspension depends on the specific DUI offense, including:
- First-time DUI: four-month suspension
- Subsequent DUIs within 10 years: one-year suspension
- Refusing a chemical test: one to three years suspension
As you seek to avoid having your license suspended, we strongly recommend that you request to complete the hearing in person and that you bring your DUI attorney to represent you during the hearing.
Court Triggered Suspensions
The second type of license suspension is triggered when a criminal court issues a conviction for DUI. License suspensions ordered by the court are often much longer than administrative suspensions and cannot be appealed.
The length of the court triggered license suspension is determined by the number of previous offenses. First-time DUI offenders will have their license suspended for six months. A second conviction results in a two-year suspension, and a third conviction a three-year suspension. Those who are convicted for DUI a fourth time may have their license suspended for four years or even have it revoked permanently.
Call Today for Qualified Legal Counsel
The Law Office of Charles B. Smith can help you fight against your DUI charges so that you can avoid getting your license suspended. With over 30 years of experience successfully representing thousands of clients, our Sonora suspended driver’s license lawyer knows what it takes to win.
Reach out to our compassionate legal team at (209) 231-6506 today to schedule your free consultation.
