The consequences of being charged with a DUI affect both your driver’s license as well as your freedom.
Your driver’s license: If you are accused of a DUI, it is important for you to go to the Department of Motor Vehicles to request a hearing so we can attempt to not lose your license. You cannot mail or call for a hearing with the Department of Motor Vehicles to fight for your license. If you do not request a hearing, the DMV will automatically suspend your license. The timeline for requesting a hearing depends on the type of test you took when charged. If you took a blood test, you need to wait for the notice of revocation to come in the mail. Upon receiving the notice, you have 10 days to request a hearing. If you took a breath test, you have 7 days from the date you are charged to request a hearing. If you refused to take either test, you have 7 days from the day you were charged to request a hearing. Remember, your request must be made in person at the Department of Motor Vehicles.
If this is your first offense, and the hearing officer finds in favor the state, your driving privilege will be revoked for nine months. If this is a second offense, the revocation will be longer. There are ways to have the Department of Motor Vehicles issue a probationary license with certain requirements. Ms. Chase will help you during your DMV hearing and make sure your rights are protected and the state meets their burden of proof.
The DUI Charge: The DUI/DWAI charge is separate from the Department of Motor Vehicles hearing. The charge will carry you through the court process in county court. You face the possibility of jail with a DUI/DWAI charge. The prosecutor must prove your case to the court or a jury beyond a reasonable doubt. Knowledge of the court process for alcohol offenses is imperative to ensure your rights are not violated. With Ms. Chase, you will have a good defense team on your side.
If you are a juvenile and charged with a minor in possession ticket, this can have serious consequences for your driver’s license. It does not matter if the juvenile was not in a vehicle, his or her license can be suspended. For example, if the juvenile was at a party and received a ticket for minor in possession, his or her driver’s license can be suspended. Additionally, such a charge and conviction can have a consequence of an increased premium on auto insurance even if the juvenile was not driving a car. Ms. Chase understands the consequences of such a charge and will work hard with you to keep this from happening.
If you are facing an alcohol charge, Ms. Chase is happy to meet with you for an initial consultation, free of charge. Please call 303-805-5303 to make an appointment with our office.