If you commit certain driving infractions or are convicted of some crimes, part of the consequence might include the revocation of your driving privileges. While this may not be a big deal in a place with great public transportation, if you live in Garfield Township, it’s a problem. Fortunately, there is a way to get your driver’s license restored.
1 to 5 years after your driver’s license was revoked, you can apply to have your license reinstated. The process includes gathering documentation, getting an evaluation, and submitting to a urine test. You will also have to go to a hearing, where a lawyer will decide whether or not you qualify to have your license restored.
At Mas/Stig-Nielsen, we have significant experience helping Michigan drivers get their licenses back after they were revoked (often for alcohol-related offenses such as DUI). If your driver’s license has been revoked, call us to schedule a consultation with a Garfield Township driver’s license restoration attorney.
How Can I Get My Driver’s License Back After Revocation?
In the state of Michigan, your driver’s license may be revoked if you have been convicted of certain crimes or if you accumulate too many driving infractions. Most often, a revocation is related to having multiple convictions for driving under the influence (DUI/OUI) within a 7-year period (the “lookback” period).
A revocation means a complete termination of your driving privileges. If your driver’s license has been revoked, then you cannot drive until you go through the driver’s license restoration process. Depending on the reason for the revocation, you may be eligible for restoration between 1 and 5 years after your license was revoked.
When you are eligible for restoration, the Secretary of State (SOS) will send you a packet of information. At this point, you should consult with a Garfield Township driver’s license restoration attorney to learn more about your rights and what you need to do to get your license back.
Restoring a Driver’s License in Garfield Township, Michigan
There are several steps that you must take to get your driver’s license back after a revocation. You should have received a packet from the SOS with a form titled Request for Hearing and Substance Use Evaluation Form (SOS-257/258). If you didn’t get this form, you can download it online.
You will need to fill out this form and gather other evidence to support your application. This includes:
- If you don’t plan to have witnesses at your hearing, you will need 3 to 6 community support letters from friends, family members, and/or coworkers.
- If your license was revoked due to alcohol and/or drug-related issues, you will need to find a qualified evaluator to complete the Substance Use Evaluation.
- Order a laboratory report from a 12-panel urinalysis screen.
You may also need evidence based on your specific situation, such as an ignition interlock report and verification of your participation in a support group and/or counseling. A Garfield Township Michigan driver’s license restoration attorney can help you determine what documentation you will need to successfully apply for reinstatement.
At this point, you can request a hearing at a local SOS office. This can be done online or through the mail. If you are eligible for a hearing, then a hearing date will be scheduled.
This hearing will take place virtually using Microsoft Teams, and will be presided over by a lawyer for the SOS. The lawyer (hearing officer) will listen to your testimony and any witness testimony and will review the evidence that you have submitted. They will then make a decision and inform you of whether your license will be restored by mail or e-mail. If you disagree with the decision, you may be able to file an appeal.
Most cases require just one hearing. However, if you are considered a habitual offender, you may need to attend at least two hearings. These situations are complex and should be handled with the help of a Garfield Township driver’s license restoration lawyer.
Being without a license can be a true hardship in northern Michigan. While you are not required to have legal counsel for the restoration process, it is often money well spent to ensure that your case has the highest likelihood of success. An attorney can help you gather the necessary evidence for your case, and will represent you in the hearing. They can also help you understand what you need to do – such as paying off outstanding fines – in order to get your license back.
Help for Drivers with Revoked Licenses in Garfield Township, Michigan
Without a driver’s license, you may find it hard to get to work, to school, or to have much of a life at all. Fortunately, after you have served your period of revocation, you can get your license restored. Our law firm can help.
Mas/Stig-Nielsen represents individuals throughout northern Michigan on a range of criminal offenses and related issues. We offer skilled advocacy to help our clients achieve the best possible outcome – such as getting their license back after a revocation. To learn more or to schedule a consultation with a Garfield Township, MI driver’s license restoration lawyer, give us a call at 231-714-4128 or fill out our online contact form.