A DUI can cause a DUI license suspension if convicted of a DUI and/or the blood alcohol (B.A.) level is .08 or more if you are age 21 or more and it is a first offense. It is possible, however, to convert that 4 or 6 month suspesnion to a restricted license to and from and the course of employment and Court ordered programs. If you are under 21 years old or on probation for a DUI there is a zero tolerance and a license suspension for 1 year will be imposed. A critical need restricted license for work or school may be available for a first offense if you are under 21. There is no restriction for one year if you are on DUI probation at the time of a second arrest.
First Offense DUI arrests not only have a criminal proceeding for the Driving under the Influence criminal charge but also usually result in a DMV DUI license suspension proceeding if you are .08 or more B.A. You would be served with a pink sheet ‘Notice of Suspension and Temporary License.” This advises you that a 4 month suspension will be going into effect in 30 days and if your license was valid at the time of the stop, it continues to be valid for 30 days. However, if you wish to challenge the suspension, you (or normally your attorney) must set a DMV Hearing by contacting DMV within 10 days of your arrest, failure to do so waives the right to have a hearing. If you loose the hearing, a 4 month suspension would go into affect, but you could convert it to a restricted license after 30 days of the suspension if you are in the DUI Program, have an insurance SR-22 form on file with DMV, go to the DMV and pay $125 reissue fee. A conviction for DUI, VC 23152, also triggers a 6 month suspension but can be converted without the 30 day wait period.
That is why it is important to talk wwith a DUI Defene Attorney as soon as possible after your arrest so he can evaluate your case and advise you of the things that need to be done right away like setting the hearing to try to preserve your license. Call Christoph Law Offices at 760-941-5720 for a free consultation. We have been located directly across from Vista Courts for over 34 years, providing the highest level of personal and professional representation.
