Raleigh DUI Driver’s License-Suspension Lawyer
Losing your driver’s license due to a DUI-related suspension can seriously impact your ability to maintain your daily routine. Whether you’re facing penalties from a prior DWI conviction or dealing with a DUI charge, you need a skilled DUI driver’s license suspension lawyer at Coolidge Law Firm to defend your driving privileges.
Our attorneys have extensive experience defending clients against DWI charges and helping restore revoked licenses. We understand the complexities of North Carolina’s strict motor vehicle laws and work diligently to navigate your case, whether you’re pursuing a hardship license or appealing a suspension.
We are proud to represent clients throughout the Raleigh area, including Raleigh, Apex, Cary, Morrisville, Rolesville, Wake Forest, Fuquay-Varina, and Knightdale. Call to schedule a free case evaluation.
License-Suspension Hearing Lawyer in Raleigh
Losing your ability to drive can significantly impact your personal and professional life. From commuting to work to managing family responsibilities, losing driving privileges due to a DUI or prior DWI conviction can be overwhelming. Quick action is necessary, as drivers have only 10 days to challenge a suspension after a DUI arrest.
A DMV Hearing for driving privileges provides an opportunity to contest the loss of driving privileges. Our experienced lawyers present evidence to challenge administrative suspensions, helping clients retain or regain their ability to drive. Don’t let a license suspension affect your future.
Contact Coolidge Law Firm for legal guidance and representation during your suspension hearing.
Information on License-Suspension Hearings
- Losing Driving Privileges in North Carolina
- Suspension After DWI Conviction
- North Carolina Implied Consent Law
In North Carolina, losing driving privileges can occur for several reasons, including DUI arrests, a failed breath test, or refusing a chemical test. The North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has the authority to impose administrative suspensions, even before a criminal conviction. These suspensions are based on blood alcohol concentration (BAC) levels or refusal to comply with testing under the state’s implied consent law.
A driver facing suspension after a DUI or refusal may still qualify for a restricted license to maintain important driving privileges, such as commuting to work or attending medical appointments. However, the process involves navigating strict requirements and deadlines, including requesting a DMV hearing within the allowable timeframe.
Understanding the steps to challenge a suspension or apply for restricted privileges can be challenging without legal guidance. A skilled DUI suspension lawyer can clarify these procedures and advocate for the best possible outcome.
Losing Driving Privileges in North Carolina
North Carolina has some of the strictest driving laws, including those against driving while impaired (DWI). The North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) can suspend or revoke driving privileges for several reasons, including:
- Speeding
- Reckless driving
- Driving while impaired (DWI) or DWI-related offenses
- Refusing to take a chemical test
- Accumulating driver’s license points
A revoked license is different from a suspension, as it involves a longer loss of driving privileges. In either case, a person cannot legally drive on North Carolina roads. However, drivers may qualify for a limited driving privilege or hardship license depending on the circumstances. Legal aspects of a temporary driving suspension include the procedures, duration, and conditions related to obtaining a restricted license during the suspension period.
When your license is taken away in North Carolina, you will be immediately notified in writing. The suspension period varies based on the reason for the suspension. Certain speeding and reckless driving convictions can result in an automatic suspension of your license, including speeding over 75 mph.
One of the most common causes for a suspended North Carolina license is the accumulation of driver’s license points. Drivers accumulate points after being convicted for committing moving violations and other traffic infractions.
The number of points you earn will depend on the violation. Your license could be suspended if you accumulate 12 points or more in three years. It also could be suspended if you accumulate eight points or more within three years following a previous suspension.
How Long Does a Suspension Last?
The length of your suspension depends on the specific offense and prior driving record. Common suspension periods include:
First suspension:
60 days maximum
Second suspension:
6 months maximum
Any subsequent suspensions:
1 year
Certain offenses, such as DWI convictions, carry mandatory license revocation periods or additional penalties, including the installation of an ignition interlock device.
Suspension After DUI Conviction
DWI convictions result in an automatic loss of driving privileges in North Carolina. If you are arrested for driving under the influence or for a zero-tolerance offense, your driver’s license will automatically be suspended for 30 days—regardless of whether you are ultimately convicted.
If you’re convicted of a DWI, your license could be revoked for:
First Offense
Up to one year
Second Offense
Up to four years
Third Offense
Permanently
Habitual Impaired Driving
Permanently
Repeat offenders often face stricter penalties, such as mandatory interlock devices. Prior DUI convictions can also significantly increase the length of your suspension and the severity of other penalties.
Raleigh DWI attorneys can help you seek limited driving privileges and navigate the legal requirements to get back on the road.
North Carolina Implied Consent Law and Administrative License Suspension
By driving in North Carolina, you agree to chemical testing if law enforcement suspects impaired driving. Refusing to submit to a chemical test results in a one-year suspension under the state’s implied consent law. Drivers with commercial licenses (CDLs) face additional penalties, including disqualification from operating commercial vehicles.
If your license has been suspended due to a refusal, you may request a hearing before a DMV hearing officer. The refusal hearing must be scheduled within 10 days of the date the DMV notified you of the suspension.
FAQs About DUI License Suspensions
What is a limited driving privilege?
A limited driving privilege allows you to drive for essential purposes, such as commuting to work, attending school, or medical appointments, during a suspension or revocation period. Eligibility depends on factors such as your driving record, the nature of the offense, and court approval.
How do I apply for a limited driving privilege in North Carolina?
To apply, you must file a petition with the court. This typically requires proof of insurance, an alcohol or drug assessment, and payment of applicable fees. A DWI lawyer can help you prepare the necessary documentation and advocate for your case.
How can I get my suspended license back?
The process for reinstating a suspended or revoked license varies based on the suspension type. Common steps include:
- Completing a substance abuse assessment or treatment program.
- Paying a DMV restoration fee.
- Meeting specific conditions, such as installing an ignition interlock device if required.
What happens if I refuse a chemical test in North Carolina?
Refusing a chemical test results in an automatic one-year suspension under the state’s implied consent law. This suspension applies regardless of whether you are convicted of DUI. However, you can request a DMV hearing to challenge the suspension and present evidence to defend your rights.
Will I need to install an ignition interlock device?
If your license revocation is related to a DWI conviction, you may be required to install an ignition interlock device to regain driving privileges. This device makes sure you cannot operate your vehicle if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) exceeds a set limit.
Can I appeal the suspension of my driving privileges??
Yes, you have the right to appeal your suspension by requesting a DMV hearing within 10 days of receiving notice. An experienced DUI lawyer can help you navigate the appeals process and present a strong case on your behalf.
What penalties apply for repeat DUI offenses?
Repeat DUI offenses carry harsher penalties, including longer suspension periods and mandatory ignition interlock device installation. For example:
- A second offense may result in up to four years of suspension.
- A third offense can lead to permanent license revocation.
How long does a suspension stay on my record?
A suspension remains on your driving record for several years, depending on the offense. For DWIs in North Carolina, the suspension is typically visible for at least seven years and may impact your insurance rates.
What is blood alcohol content (BAC), and how does it affect license revocation?
Blood alcohol content (BAC) measures the concentration of alcohol in your bloodstream. In North Carolina, a BAC of 0.08% or higher leads to a DWI charge and automatic license revocation. For commercial drivers or drivers under 21, stricter BAC limits apply.
How can prior DWIs impact my driving privileges?
A prior DWI conviction can result in harsher penalties for subsequent offenses, including longer license revocation periods and mandatory ignition interlock device installation. Repeat offenders may also face higher fines and permanent loss of driving privileges.
Facing a DWI License Suspension Hearing? Contact Us Today!
If you face losing your driving privileges in North Carolina, contact a skilled Raleigh DUI driver’s license-suspension lawyer at Coolidge Law Firm. Our attorneys have the knowledge and experience to help you retain or restore your driving privileges.
You may be eligible for a hardship license to handle essential driving needs like commuting to work or school during the suspension period. Let our DWI lawyers guide you through the complex DMV process and fight to keep you on the road. Call or fill out the contact form below for a free consultation.
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