Has Your Driver’s License Been Suspended?

A Michigan driver’s license may be suspended or revoked for many reasons. Many times this suspension is due to a failure to pay a fine, parking or speeding ticket, due to multiple alcohol or drug convictions, or for too many points from traffic violations. To restore your driver’s license, a hearing is often required with the Secretary of State. Most often, people attend these hearings without an attorney, only to be denied and have to wait another year before they can apply again. Do not make this mistake.

You Have Options

Contact Gordon & Hess, PLC, before you send any paperwork to the Secretary of State for a hearing. We will make sure you have the correct information together to maximize the chance for restoration. Some people may qualify to seek their license through a hearing with the circuit court. This may be the case if you have been denied by the Secretary of State hearing officer, or if you are eligible for a hardship license.

These hearings are held before a judge of the circuit court in the county in which you reside. If you have a suspended or revoked license, contact our office. There may be avenues of restoration available to you and our attorneys at Gordon & Hess, PLC, can help.

Frequently Asked Questions

We are happy to answer your questions as you navigate this legal process:

How long will it take to get my driver’s license restored?

The length of the license suspension depends on why your license was suspended. For instance, your license could be suspended if you refuse to take a breath test under implied consent laws. For a first offense, the suspension would last a year, at which point you can submit a Hearing Request Application. You will get your license back after the conclusion of that hearing if the panel determines it to be appropriate. It can take 2 to 3 months for the hearing process to conclude.

Will I have to take a driver’s test after my license is reinstated?

If your license was suspended, you can get it back when the suspension terminates without the need to take another test. However, you do not automatically get your license back if it has been revoked, which means you no longer have a valid driver’s license. In this situation, you must apply for reinstatement and undergo the license restoration process, which involves attending a hearing, paying fees, providing references and completing any additional requirements.

Can I apply for a restricted license while my regular license is suspended?

Yes, this may be a possibility. One thing to note is that the Secretary of State will not authorize a restricted license during the first 30 days. After that, you can submit an application, which may be approved in some situations. Our experienced team can help you understand the application process and determine if you are eligible for a restricted license.

What happens if I am caught driving with a suspended license?

It is illegal to drive on a suspended license in Michigan. If you are caught and convicted, you could face a fine of up to $500 for a first offense. Subsequent offenses could result in increased fines reaching up to $1,000. It is also possible that you will be ordered to spend time in jail, with the maximum jail sentence for a first offense being 93 days.

Call Us For A Free Consultation

Call 616-369-7452 to set up a consultation with our criminal defense attorneys at Gordon & Hess, PLC. We can also help you with exploring your legal options for expungement of your criminal records or if you are facing charges for a felony or misdemeanor. We serve clients throughout West Michigan.

.