Wheaton, IL License Reinstatement Lawyers

Attorneys for Driver's License Reinstatement Hearings in Wheaton and DuPage County

If your license has been suspended or revoked in Illinois, you may be wondering what options you have and how to get back on the road legally. Requesting a license reinstatement through the Illinois Secretary of State (SOS) can be a complicated process, and legal help from an attorney can be crucial in these situations.

At Mirabella, Kincaid, Frederick & Mirabella, LLC, our driver's license reinstatement attorneys can guide you through the process of regaining your driving privileges. We understand the requirements that the Secretary of State will require you to meet, and we will advise you on the best steps you can take to get back on the road quickly. We will evaluate your specific situation, prepare the necessary documentation, and advocate for you during a license reinstatement hearing.

Common Reasons for License Suspension or Revocation

There are numerous reasons that your license could be suspended or revoked in Illinois. Some of the most common reasons for the loss of driving privileges include:

• Driving Under the Influence (DUI): A conviction for DUI, a chemical test showing that you were above the legal limit for blood alcohol concentration, or refusal to submit to chemical testing will typically result in a license suspension or revocation.
• Traffic Violations: When you receive a traffic ticket, points will be added to your driving record. If you accumulate too many points, your license may be suspended.
• Unpaid Traffic Tickets: Failing to pay fines or appear in court for traffic offenses can lead to a license suspension.
• Failure to Pay Child Support: Non-payment of child support obligations may lead the court to suspend your license.

Understanding the reason for your suspension or revocation is the first step toward preparing for a reinstatement hearing and building a strategy to regain your driving privileges.

Informal vs. Formal License Reinstatement Hearings

The Illinois Secretary of State's office offers two types of hearings for those who are requesting license reinstatement. The type of hearing you must attend will depend on the underlying reason for the license suspension or revocation.

Informal Hearings

If your license was suspended or revoked based on traffic violations or a first-time DUI charge, you will be able to attend an informal hearing where you can request a license reinstatement. These hearings are conducted on a walk-in basis at designated SOS offices. A hearing officer may review your driving history and any supporting documents that you submit, and they will make a recommendation that will be reviewed by the main SOS office. The SOS's decision may allow for a restricted driving permit or a full reinstatement of your driving privileges.

Formal Hearings

If your license has been revoked because you have been convicted of DUI for a second or subsequent time or because you committed a violation that led to someone's death, a formal hearing will be required. These proceedings are held at specific Secretary of State hearing locations, and they must be scheduled in advance through a written request. They are conducted in a manner similar to a courtroom hearing.

At a formal hearing, you will need to present evidence showing that you have taken steps to prevent future incidents that may put other people at risk. This may include showing that you have received treatment for alcohol addiction and that you have met all other legal requirements. It is important to be fully prepared for a formal hearing, which is why representation from a knowledgeable attorney is essential in these cases.

Preparing for a Reinstatement Hearing

To make sure you meet all requirements to have your license reinstated, you will need to complete several key steps, including:

• Obtain an Alcohol/Drug Evaluation: If your license was suspended or revoked following a DUI arrest, you may need to receive an evaluation from a licensed treatment provider.
• Complete Required Treatment or Education: You may need to attend a DUI risk education program or undergo substance abuse treatment, depending on the results of your evaluation.
• Gather Supporting Documents: Letters of reference, documentation of employment, and proof of abstinence from drugs or alcohol (such as clean drug test results) can support your case.
• Pay Applicable Fees: Reinstatement and hearing fees must be paid to the SOS.
• Proof of Hardship: If you are requesting a Restricted Driving Permit (RDP), you will need to demonstrate that you or your family will suffer hardship due to the loss of your driving privileges. You can provide documentation showing that you need to be able to drive in order to maintain employment or meet other responsibilities.

Our driver's license reinstatement attorney can ensure that all paperwork is complete, help you prepare answers to questions that you may be asked during a hearing, and advocate on your behalf during a hearing to help you show that you qualify for license reinstatement.

Contact Our Wheaton, Illinois Driver's License Reinstatement Attorneys

As you work to have your license reinstated following a suspension or revocation, an experienced DuPage County license reinstatement attorney can provide the guidance you need to succeed. At Mirabella, Kincaid, Frederick & Mirabella, LLC, we will work closely with you to help you restore your driving privileges as quickly as possible. Contact our office at 630-549-8134 to schedule a consultation and begin taking steps toward getting back behind the wheel.