Birmingham Driver’s License Restoration Lawyer

Losing your license for an extended period can make daily activities extremely challenging. Seeking restoration of your license is often a priority when you are suffering the effects of losing your driving privileges. After your applicable period of license revocation has expired, a Birmingham driver’s license restoration lawyer may be able to assist you in reinstating your driving privileges. Your chances of success increase if you contact a license restoration lawyer early in the process.

You can have your license revoked by Michigan, even if the license is from out of state. By requesting a hearing before the Secretary of State’s office, you may be able to regain your license or have a hold lifted from your record. An experienced traffic defense lawyer may be able to determine your eligibility and work with you to gather the evidence necessary in building a strong case. This process usually takes three or four months, so do not delay in getting started with a license restoration attorney.

License restoration and clearance appeals can be complicated under Michigan law. Individuals must prove various elements before they are entitled to regain driving privileges or receive clearance of the hold on their record. These elements include evidence showing that individuals are:

• Alcohol and drug-free and likely to remain that away
• At low risk of repeating their prior behavior
• At low risk of engaging in driving under the influence (DUI) or related criminal offenses
• Able and motivated to drive safely and follow the law

All of these elements must be shown by “clear and convincing” evidence, which is a very high standard. If individuals are able to show that they are sober, committed to remaining in this state, and are otherwise legally eligible for relief, they may be able to obtain a restricted license. Out-of-state residents may be able to lift the Michigan hold on their driving record that might permit them to get licenses in their home states. A knowledgeable driver’s license restoration lawyer in Birmingham may be able to help individuals gather the evidence necessary to prove that they have met all four elements and work toward the desired outcome.

Individuals must submit various documents to obtain a restoration of their driver’s license. Most importantly, they must complete a substance use evaluation with a licensed substance abuse counselor. Without this evaluation, they may not have the ability to restore their licenses.

Individuals also must submit a minimum of three and a maximum of six letters of support or testimonials to the Secretary of State’s office. These letters must contain specific information about the individual’s commitment to sobriety and related changes in their lives due to overcoming alcohol and drug problems. A letter from an Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) sponsor that is part of a regularly attended program of support can be essential in demonstrating a commitment to sobriety.

While participation in counseling, treatment programs, and AA and NA is not mandatory to obtain a license restoration, it can be helpful. Continuing involvement in these forms of recovery can show a dedication to being and remaining sober, an instrumental element in these cases. With the assistance of an experienced driver’s license restoration attorney in Birmingham, individuals may be able to obtain the evidence that they need to build a successful claim for license restoration.

Losing your driver’s license after an OWI or DUI conviction can seriously impact your daily life. In Michigan, restoring your driving privileges requires a detailed and often challenging process through the Michigan Department of State. At Barone Defense Firm, we use our experience to help you successfully navigate this process.

To begin, you must request a hearing with the Office of Hearings and Administrative Oversight. From there, several documents are required, including:

• A current substance abuse evaluation from a state-licensed substance abuse counselor
• A 12-panel drug screen
• Multiple reference letters that support your sobriety
• A personal letter outlining your recovery and commitment to a sober lifestyle

You may also need to show proof of support group attendance or treatment programs. As the petitioner, you must prove your substance use is under control and unlikely to return. Mistakes in paperwork or testimony can result in a denial and a mandatory 1-year wait to reapply.

We understand how important it is to get back behind the wheel. Our experienced attorneys know what hearing officers want to see and how to build a strong, clear case on your behalf.

We help you prepare every part of your case, guide you through document collection, and coach you for your hearing. From start to finish, we’re with you, making sure you have the best chance at restoring your license and your freedom.

The stakes can be high in a driver’s license restoration appeal. Your ability to obtain a better job, pursue a new career, and adequately care for your financial needs all may depend on your ability to drive. Without a Birmingham driver’s license restoration lawyer, it may be difficult to understand and collect all of the evidence required to be eligible for license reinstatement.

Although there is a high standard of proof that requires convincing evidence of sobriety, it is an attainable goal. Real dedication and proof of commitment can constitute the grounds to obtain a restricted license or clearance of the Michigan hold on your record. Schedule a consultation to get started on your case today.