810-498-2370
What Do I Need to Know About Getting My Driver’s License Back After Multiple DUIs?
If you have had your license revoked after multiple DUI offenses, you may be unsure of the legal process involved to get it back. Michigan DUI laws have stiff penalties for those who have been convicted of multiple DUI offenses.
However, our law firm has comprehensive experience helping clients with driver’s license restoration and knows what it takes to get results. If you have had your license suspended after multiple DUIs, you cannot afford not to hire a lawyer who can assist you with the complex legal process. Contact Clint W. Perryman PC today to schedule a consultation, and we will professionally assess your case to determine your legal options.
When Can I Get My License Back After Being Charged With Multiple DUI Offenses?
Michigan has strict rules that dictate when individuals may be eligible to apply to have their driver’s license reinstated after multiple DUIs. These rules include:
- Second DUI within seven years: One year after revocation
- Third DUI within 10 years: Five years after revocation
It is worth noting that individuals who have been convicted of a third or felony DUI and have had their license permanently revoked can reapply for reinstatement after five years have passed. However, they must also request a Driver’s License Restoration Hearing with the Michigan Secretary of State’s Driver Assessment and Appeal Division (DAAD).
Simply waiting the required amount of time does not guarantee that you will be approved to have your driving privileges restored. The license suspension period is not only meant as a punitive action to hold offenders accountable for their actions, but also to allow them time to address their alcohol or drug dependency and demonstrate sobriety.
Therefore, if you are trying to have your license reinstated after multiple DUIs, it is in your best interest to hire a criminal defense lawyer to assist you. A defense lawyer can explain the reinstatement process and ensure that you have completed all requirements when reapplying.
Can Michigan Clean Slate Laws Help Me Get My License Back After Multiple DUIs?
The Michigan Department of State has implemented Clean Slate laws designed to help individuals have their criminal records expunged. Although these state laws do allow
some individuals to have a single DUI conviction expunged if they meet the qualifying conditions, they do not help individuals with multiple DUI convictions. The Clean Slate laws are only meant to assist individuals who have qualifying DUIs as a one-time event.
It should also be stated that individuals who have been convicted of a DUI that caused serious injury or death, or had a minor under 16 in the car, are ineligible to have their case expunged.
Michigan classifies those who have multiple DUIs as habitual offenders and a possible threat to public safety. As a result, individuals convicted of multiple offenses are required to wait for the designated timeframe and complete several tasks before they can apply for reinstatement.
What is the Reinstatement Process to Get My License Back?
The reinstatement process to try to get your driver’s license reinstated can be challenging, but it is manageable with the help of an attorney who can guide you through the legal process.
Eligibility Review and Waiting Period
All individuals who have been convicted of DUI must wait for the duration of their revocation period before being eligible to pay to have their license reinstated. The timeframe to reapply for a license depends on the number of DUIs and the timespan in which they occurred.
Formal Appeal and Hearing
After your revocation period has ended, you may file a formal appeal with the Michigan Secretary of State’s Office of Hearings and Administrative Oversight (OHAO). When filing your appeal, you must be sure to include all supporting documentation required. After you file a request, a hearing will be scheduled.
Essential Documents and Supporting Evidence
During the hearing, you will need to submit several documents and supporting evidence to convince the hearing officer that your license should be reinstated, which includes:
- A comprehensive substance abuse evaluation from a state-approved licensed addiction counselor
- Evidence of participation in substance abuse programs
- A negative drug test
- Testimonial letters from friends, family, or other interested parties who can attest to your sobriety
Determination
After all of the evidence has been presented, the hearing officer will make a decision. The hearing officer has the legal authority to grant full reinstatement or reinstatement with conditions, such as requiring you to have an ignition interlock device. The officer can also deny the appeal if they do not feel that all conditions have been met. Having a lawyer present to represent you is the most effective solution, as they can present a compelling case to the hearing officer as to why you should have your license reinstated.
Why Should I Hire a Lawyer to Help Me Get My Driver’s License Back After a Revocation?
Having your driver’s license taken away can make going to work, running errands, and other tasks challenging. If you have been convicted of multiple DUIs, you must have an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side.
The process involved in having your license reinstated can present intricate legal challenges that are best addressed with the help of an attorney.
When you hire a lawyer, they will assist with the appeals process, help to gather supporting evidence, and increase your chances of having your license reinstated.
If you want more information about beginning the process to have your license reinstated after multiple DUIs, contact Clint W. Perryman PC at 810-498-2370 to schedule a consultation to learn more about our legal services.
