What to Expect at an Informal Driver's License Reinstatement Hearing

 Posted on November 26, 2024 in License Reinstatement

When you are trying to have your driver’s license reinstated after a DUI revocation, you may be asked to attend either a formal or informal hearing. If you have had multiple DUIs or injured someone during your first DUI, you will probably have to go through a formal hearing. However, if you have only had one uncomplicated DUI, you might qualify for an informal hearing. If you qualify for an informal hearing, you will only need to go to a Secretary of State Driver Services office where hearing officers are located. You do not need an appointment, but you do need to be well-prepared. An experienced Joliet, IL driver’s license reinstatement attorney should always help you prepare for an informal hearing.

What Happens at an Informal Driver’s License Reinstatement Hearing?

What exactly will happen and what types of questions you need to be ready to answer depends on the specific facts and circumstances of your case and whether you are asking for full reinstatement or a restricted permit. These hearings can be quick and straightforward in simple cases or more complex if your case has an unusual or complicated fact pattern.

You will need to bring some important documents with you, usually including the results of your substance abuse screening and proof of completion if you were ordered to attend treatment. When you get to the facility and ask to speak to the hearing officers, there may be a bit of a wait. You can use this time to review what you and your lawyer have discussed.

The hearing officer will ask you questions about your case. You may need to explain what happened and, more importantly, what you have done to reduce the likelihood that you will drive drunk again in the future. It is important to be polite and professional and to answer all questions honestly and completely.

What Happens After You Leave

The hearing officers will review your case. They may review your criminal and driving records to help them decide if it is safe to restore your driving privileges. If you have a history of driving on a suspended license, this may be a factor in their decision.

The hearing officers will make a recommendation to the Secretary of State regarding whether to restore your driving privileges. Their recommendation may be not to restore your driving privileges at all, to restore them on a limited basis, or to restore them fully. You will receive the decision within 90 days.

Contact a Joliet, IL Driver’s License Reinstatement Lawyer 

If you need help getting your driving privileges restored, McNamara Phelan McSteen, LLC can help. Our aggressive DuPage County, IL DUI license reinstatement attorneys can help you prepare for your informal hearing or represent you at your formal hearing. Contact us at 815-727-0100 for a complimentary consultation.