In California, if you are charged with driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs, you will be subject to the automatic suspension of your driver’s license. You can challenge this suspension by scheduling a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) hearing, and your chances of successfully contesting your suspension will be greatly improved with the help of an experienced attorney.
Criminal defense attorney Steven Taxman can help you win back driving privileges at a DMV hearing. Practicing criminal defense law in Sacramento, CA, for 20 years, our firm helps Northern Californians fight DUI charges and their strict consequences. Your window of time to contest license suspension is limited, so please contact our office today to arrange a free consultation.
DUI and the DMV
By California law, a police officer can confiscate your driver’s license if you are arrested for DUI with a blood alcohol count higher than the legal limit. You typically receive an "Order of Suspension/ Revocation" from the officer, or it is mailed to you from the DMV. You are given a temporary license to use for 30 days before the order goes into effect.
If you are over the age of 21, your license is usually suspended for four months for a first offense; underage drivers will typically receive a 1-year suspension. Refusal to submit to chemical testing warrants an automatic 1-year suspension, and a criminal history can bring license revocation, which is permanent. (After revocation, you will have to apply for a new license and take another behind-the-wheel driving test.)
You may challenge the suspension of your driving privileges to get your license back, but you must act quickly.
The DMV Hearing
From the time you receive the initial order, you have 10 days to request a hearing at the DMV. Before the hearing, you and your legal counsel have the right to review evidence submitted by the arresting officer.
Only an experienced DUI attorney can spot the specific deficiencies in your case and effectively argue legal precedents. At your scheduled hearing, you are allowed to present evidence and can also subpoena witnesses. While there is no guarantee that you will receive your driver's license, Mr. Taxman has been successful in many cases.
Steven Taxman is a seasoned criminal attorney with an excellent reputation. DUI defense is a personal passion for him, and he knows every aspect of this area of the law. Mr. Taxman is a persuasive advocate in any type of legal negotiation, and has had notable success in the courtroom and in negotiations.
Overturning a license suspension is a tremendous victory for obvious reasons. You can retain your freedom to drive normally as your court case is resolved, without the impact to your professional and personal life. A favorable result at the DMV may also be a positive indicator of dismissed charges in your criminal case.
Contact Us
Don’t give up your driving privileges in Northern California without talking to an experienced DUI attorney. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.
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