4When it comes to getting their license reinstated, many people feel like they can do it on their own. While that is technically true, the success rates of people who choose to work with an attorney are significantly higher than those of people who choose to file alone. Attorneys understand the legal system and know all the tips and tricks that can help to get your driving record cleaned up as quickly as possible.
Keep reading to learn more about the license reinstatement process and how hiring an attorney can help to optimize your results.
If you are looking to get your driving privileges we can help. Call our Illinois license reinstatement attorneys today at (708) 274-4499 to schedule a free consultation, discuss your case, and get started.
Can a Lawyer Help You Reinstate Your License?
Although hiring a license restoration attorney is not strictly necessary to reinstate your license, it can definitely help. An experienced attorney will have in-depth knowledge of the license reinstatement process, making sure that your application for license reinstatement is processed correctly and every variable in your case has been considered. This will help to ensure that you get the best possible results in dealing with your case.
What to do After Your Driver's License is Suspended
After your license is suspended, the first thing that you will need to do is check your driving record. You can do this by going to your nearest DMV and they will be able to give you a copy that will list all of the information related to your license. This will include the reason your drivers license was suspended as well as what the suspension period is. This is the period of time that you must wait before you are able to pay your reinstatement fee and get your driving privileges back.
This document will also say why your license was suspended in the first place. If the influence of drugs or alcohol is listed as the cause, you will want to speak to a criminal defense attorney. Since DUIs require a formal trial, it is best to get a criminal attorney onboard as quickly as possible.
After you've figured out how long your license suspension is for and what charge it involves, it is time to contact an experienced traffic attorney. They will be able to walk you through the entire reinstatement process and ensure that everything is filed correctly.
Penalties For Driving Without A Valid License In Illinois
Having a license revocation means that you are not allowed to drive at all. If you choose to drive with your driver's license during the suspension period, you will face additional penalties.
Your total license suspension time will be extended, keeping you off the roads for even longer, and you can face large fines and even jail time in some cases.
This is why it is crucial to work with a driver's license attorney, to ensure that you have all the accurate information regarding your license charge and don't accidentally get your suspension extended.
Are you Eligible for a Restricted Driver's License?
In some cases, you may be able to get some of your driving privileges before the end of your suspension by applying for a restricted license. Unlike with an unrestricted license, you will only be able to drive for certain hours of the day, certain days of the week, and within a fairly short distance of your home. The exact hours, days, and distance will vary depending on the case and your individual needs.
You may also have to comply with additional restrictions, like driving with an alcohol ignition interlock device. If you've received a DUI, much of the time you will be required to use a breath alcohol ignition interlock device for several years to qualify for limited driving privilege.
To qualify for any of the restricted licenses offered in the state of Illinois, you will typically need to demonstrate need or hardship. This could be that you are the sole financial provider and public transportation isn't available to get to work. The need could also be related to something like child care. Regardless, you will need to ensure that everything is well-documented and you will want to work with an attorney to perfect your application before submitting it.
How to Get Your Suspended or Revoked Illinois Driver's License Reinstated
Once the period of suspension has come to an end you will be eligible to apply for a license reinstatement hearing. It is best to do this part with an experienced traffic lawyer because, in the state of Illinois, there is a mandatory wait time between applications and this can result in more time without driving privileges.
To get your suspended or revoked Illinois driver's license reinstated, you will need to schedule a hearing. For reinstatements, there are two types of hearings: a formal hearing and an informal hearing. A formal hearing is exactly what you picture when you think of a hearing with a judge, jury, the whole nine yards. An informal hearing is a lot more relaxed and most of the time you are only dealing with your hearing officer.
Formal hearings are typically used for charges like DUIs and reckless driving, both of which are considered criminal charges. An informal hearing is used for traffic violations and other minor issues since there is no detailed criminal case that needs to be discussed.
After your hearing, you will be notified by the state if your license status has been changed to active. Once your status has been changed, you will be able to freely drive your motor vehicle just like you were before.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Peter A Buh to Discuss Getting Your License Back
License suspension and revocation can have a devastating impact on your life, keeping you from getting to work and fulfilling your responsibilities. Fortunately, working with an experienced license suspension attorney can help.
Here at The Law Firm of Peter A. Buh, we understand how important license hearing attorneys are when it comes to getting your license reinstated. If you or someone you know is being affected by one of these charges, contact us to schedule a free consultation to learn how our suspended drivers license attorneys in Illinois can help and support you through this challenging time.