In Michigan, even first-time convictions for OWI or other drunk driving convictions can result in a license suspension. Those with subsequent convictions may have their license revoked indefinitely. While losing your driver’s license is sure to cause headaches, you do have options for restoring a revoked driver’s license in Michigan.
Clarkston driver’s license restoration lawyer Shaun Marks has consistently helped clients restore their suspended Michigan driver’s licenses in Oakland County and other parts of the state. Shaun’s track record speaks for itself: he has a 94% success rate in driver’s license restorations. If you are looking to get back on the road after a Clarkston OWI, contact Shaun today at (866) 970-2952 to learn more about the driver’s license restoration process.
Who Qualifies for Driver’s License Restoration in Michigan?
Not all revoked driver’s licenses can be restored – drivers must meet certain conditions. In most cases, you will need to wait one year after the date the license was revoked before you can apply for restoration. In cases that involve aggravating circumstances (such as injuries to other people), the driver may need to wait as long as five years before they can apply.
Showing evidence that you are recovering from an alcohol problem and committed to staying sober is equally important. Since a revoked driver’s license means multiple DUIs, you will need to convince the court that you have recognized your problem and that there is no risk of future DUIs. You will need to demonstrate that you have been sober for at least one year, which can be done by providing evidence of participation in a recovery program.
The Driver’s License Restoration Process in Michigan
If you qualify for driver’s license restoration, the next step is filing a request with the Michigan Department of State.
You will need to submit the following documents with your request:
- Documentation of a substance abuse evaluation administered by a state-licensed substance abuse counselor
- A 12-panel drug screen
- 3-6 reference letters from family, friends, or colleagues who can verify that you are sober
- Evidence that you are committed to staying sober, such as regular attendance in a recovery program like Alcoholics Anonymous or a letter from a substance abuse counselor.
Experienced Oakland County driver’s license restoration lawyer Shaun Marks can help you gather the documents you need when submitting your restoration hearing request. If approved, Shaun will help you prepare for the hearing and present your case to the hearing officer.
What Happens During a Driver’s License Restoration Hearing?
During a driver’s license restoration hearing, the hearing officer will generally be looking for evidence of the following four criteria:
- Your addiction to alcohol or drugs is now under control and you are likely to keep it in control
- The risk that you will abuse drugs or alcohol again is minimal
- You are highly unlikely to drive under the influence again
- There is reason to believe you can be trusted to consistently drive safely and legally.
You will most likely receive a decision from the hearing officer within four to six weeks. Presenting a strong case to the hearing officer is critical. Meeting the requirements alone is not enough – you must also present a compelling case with sufficient evidence to back up your sobriety and commitment to safe driving.
How Can a Clarkston Driver’s License Restoration Lawyer Help?
The driver’s license restoration process can make it much easier to get back on your feet after an OWI, but the process can be complicated. Like most legal procedures, it is generally best to seek legal guidance from an attorney with experience in the same type of case. If you are searching for a “driver’s license restoration lawyer near me” in Oakland County, look no further than Clarkson OWI attorney Shaun Marks and his 94% success rate in license restorations.
A lawyer with experience helping other clients in your area restore their licenses understands how the process works and what the courts are looking for when deciding whether to approve or deny a request. While you are free to handle this process on your own, most people will have a better chance of success if a driver’s license restoration lawyer represents them during the process.
Can I Get My Driver’s License Fully Restored?
You can eventually restore your full driving privileges if the hearing officer accepts your driver’s license restoration petition. However, those who had their license suspended for multiple drunk driving offenses will first need to drive with a restricted license for one year.
After one year with a restricted license, you will have the opportunity to apply for another hearing for an unrestricted license. It is critical to follow all of the requirements of the court during this one year. If you violate any of the court orders, your petition for an unrestricted license will likely be rejected.
Is an Ignition Interlock Device Required After a Driver’s License Restoration?
An ignition interlock device is a requirement for drivers with restricted licenses. This device requires the driver to blow in like a breathalyzer test and the vehicle will only start if the driver is sober.
These devices also collect data from each use and the Secretary of State will be notified if you attempt to drive while intoxicated. If this happens, you could lose your restricted license and you will significantly hurt your chances of obtaining an unrestricted license in the future.
Contact Clarkston Driver’s License Restoration Lawyer Shaun Marks
Shaun Marks has over 27 years of criminal defense experience representing clients who have been charged with OWI, from fighting the initial charges to restoring suspended licenses after the criminal case has wrapped up. If you are looking for a driver’s license restoration lawyer near Oakland County, Shaun is ready to help.
For more information about restoring your revoked driver’s license following an OWI in Michigan, call Clarkston driver’s license restoration lawyer Shaun Marks today at (866) 970-2952.
