Virginia DWI law firm
May Law, LLP, a Virginia DWI law firm knows that drunk driving laws vary by state. This means that, depending on your location, the consequences of your arrest can vary widely. Often, though not always, a DWI will result in the suspension of your license.
Most consequences of a DWI are contingent upon the outcome of your hearing. In other words, a court has to find you guilty before you can be punished. A driver’s license suspension is a different matter. As a matter of public safety, the licensing authority in most states can suspend your license administratively upon your arrest, before the trial takes place. If you have been charged with a DWI, seek help from a DWI lawyer Fairfax, VA relies on.
Temporary License
If a police officer confiscates your driver’s license following your DWI arrest, he or she may give you a temporary one to use until your hearing takes place. The date of the hearing is the same as the expiration date on your temporary license, meaning that you will not be able to use it anymore after your hearing.
If the court finds you guilty at your hearing, it may impose its own driver’s license suspension. This is separate from the administrative suspension that happened after your arrest, although there may be some overlap between them. For a first offense, the license suspension may last anywhere from three months to a year. During that time, you will probably have to complete some sort of treatment program or DUI/DWI education course before you qualify to get your license back.
On the other hand, if you work with our DWI law firm in Virginia, the court decides in your favor at the hearing, you may get your license back right away.
Refusal of Drug Testing
The law presumes that by applying for a driver’s license you have given implied consent for drug testing if an officer pulls you over for possible DWI. In states where your driver’s license is not automatically suspended for a DWI arrest, the suspension is mandatory for refusal to submit to chemical drug testing. Our DWI law firm in VA knows that in states where your license is automatically suspended upon arrest, the suspension may be longer if you refuse drug testing.
Multiple Offenses
If you already have a history of prior DWI arrests, you may face a longer license suspension than you would for a first offense. You could also see your driver’s license revoked. The difference between a license suspension and revocation is that a suspended license can eventually be reinstated, while a revoked license is permanently void. Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to get a new license, but you can never get your revoked license back. If your offenses are severe enough, you may lose your driving privileges permanently.
Get Help With Our DWI Law Firm in Virginia Now!
What ultimately happens to your license after a DWI depends on many factors, such as your location, your criminal record, and the seriousness of your offense. If your license has been suspended, one of our attorneys may be able to help you get it back. Contact May Law, LLP, a trusted Virginia DWI law firm!