If you are subject to a driver’s license revocation because you were convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs, you must take specific actions to regain your driving privileges. Driving with a revoked or suspended license in Illinois is a Class A misdemeanor offense punishable by a mandatory minimum jail sentence and up to $2,500 in fines. A second offense for driving on a suspended or revoked license may constitute a felony. To avoid these criminal charges and regain your ability to legally drive, you will need to attend a formal or informal Secretary of State reinstatement hearing.
Complete the Education Program and Other Requirements
Many people mistakenly assume that a driver’s license suspension is the same as a revocation. If your license is revoked, it is revoked indefinitely. You will have to take certain actions to prove that you deserve to have your license reinstated. The exact steps that you must take depend on the reason that your license was revoked, the results of your drug and alcohol evaluation, and other factors. You must complete a drug and alcohol remedial education program and, if the results of your evaluation indicate possible drug or alcohol dependency, you may need to undergo treatment. You will need to provide documentation that proves that you completed the necessary steps.
Prepare to Answer Difficult Questions
If you were convicted of a first-time DUI, your reinstatement hearing is likely to be an informal meeting at a Secretary of State Driver Services facility. If you have been convicted of multiple DUIs or DUI resulting in serious injury or death, you will likely need to attend a formal hearing with a lawyer representing the Illinois Secretary of State. Whether your hearing is formal or informal, you must be prepared to answer some difficult questions about:
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The reasons that your license was revoked
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Why you believe that your license should be reinstated
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How you plan to avoid drunk driving in the future
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The drug and alcohol treatment programs or recovery groups that you have participated in
Dress and Act Appropriately
It is important to make a good impression during your hearing. Remember, you are trying to convince the hearing officer that you will not drive under the influence anymore and that you do not represent a risk to the general public. Dress appropriately and speak politely. Answer the questions asked by the hearing officer or Secretary of State lawyer freely and honestly.
Contact a McHenry County Driver’s License Reinstatement Lawyer
Being convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol can cost you your ability to drive. A Crystal Lake DUI defense attorney from Botto Gilbert Lancaster, PC can help you seek driving relief through an informal or formal reinstatement hearing. Call 815-338-3838 for a free, confidential consultation.
Source:
https://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/departments/BAIID/reinstate.html