Michigan Criminal Lawyers Blog
Many people are what are known as “habitual offenders,” that is they have violated the law on two or more occasions, such as in the case of someone who has been convicted two or more times for driving under the influence. In Michigan, someone who is convicted on a second DUI within 7 years of the first will have his or her license revoked, which is more serious than a suspension.
Unfortunately, many people don’t give much thought to the serious impact to their lives until their driver’s license has been revoked. You may believe that you can obtain a restricted license to be used only to get to and from work, or for emergency purposes. This is absolutely not true, and there is no way around it. It makes no difference who you know, or if you have a friend with a friend who “knows somebody.” Until the one-year revocation period has passed, you will not be eligible to have your driver’s license restored. Even then, it is not guaranteed that the DAAD will approve reinstatement of your license.
For a third or subsequent DUI within a 10 year time period, your driver’s license will be revoked for a period of five years. This means that during this 5-year term, you cannot legally operate a motor vehicle – period. Having your driver’s license revoked for multiple DUI’s is certainly a hardship, but one you will have to live with until the revocation period passes and you can file a restoration appeal with the DAAD (Driver Assessment and Appeal Division) of the Michigan Secretary of State.
That being said, when the time comes that you are eligible to file for restoration, it is critical you obtain the legal guidance and support of a skilled and experienced Michigan drivers license restoration attorney. The process of having your license reinstated is one that is complex, to put it bluntly. You may be eligible to file an appeal, but are you ready? In this context, ready means “sober.” You must be in a position to prove unequivocally that you are sober, and will remain that way. This requires substantial documentation, recommendation letters from family, a substance abuse evaluation, 10-panel drug screen, and effective, convincing testimony.
How do you know when you are eligible to file an appeal? If you have multiple DUI convictions and are considered a habitual offender, you can learn when you will be legally eligible to request a hearing with the DAAD by looking at your driving record. It is critical to note that being eligible is one thing, while being fully prepared to win an appeal is another. This is why it is important to consult with a highly qualified Michigan drivers license reinstatement lawyer who can help make certain you have the best chance of success at your DAAD hearing.