If you were arrested for driving under the influence, you only have ten days to schedule a license suspension hearing with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.
After a DUI arrest, the department will automatically suspend your driver's license unless you schedule a hearing. At the hearing, the department will determine whether or not you can keep your license. This license suspension is separate from any legal proceedings that surround your case, and in the event of a conviction, you could face similarly license suspension penalties anyway.
What You Should Know About Your DUI Hearing
- The DUI hearing is not a criminal process, it is administrative; however, you may bring an attorney represent you.
- You can produce evidence and witness testimony to support your case during the hearing, much like a criminal trial.
- The hearing will not determine if you are guilty or innocent of drunk driving, only if the department will suspend you license.
- Generally speaking, DUI hearings are not easy to win but require less evidence than criminal court proceedings.
- The hearing is not guided by a judge, but an office of the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.
Do I need an attorney form my DUI hearing?
DUI defendants often neglect to contact a lawyer for administrative hearings, even though the hearing will determine if you have the right to continue driving. With the help of a qualified attorney, you stand a better chance of retaining your right to drive.
At Hager & Schwartz, P.A., we are well-versed in a wide range of criminal defense practice areas, including DUI. If you were arrested, an attorney from our law firm can help you stand up for your rights during the administrative and legal process ahead.
Learn more about your rights by contacting our office today!
