San Rafael Driver's License Reinstatement Lawyer

How Do I Keep My Driver's License after a Drunk Driving Arrest in the Bay Area?

Being arrested for drunk driving in San Rafael can be an overwhelming experience. The consequences of a DUI arrest often include steep fines, potential jail time, and a significant impact on daily life. Even for first-time offenders, there is the risk of incarceration, but the most challenging aspect for many is the loss of driving privileges. Without a valid driver's license, commuting to work, school, daycare, and other essential activities can become nearly impossible. For commercial drivers, a DUI can jeopardize their livelihood entirely.

How a Lawyer Can Help After a DUI Arrest

If you are facing a DUI charge in San Rafael, Attorney Paul Burglin can help you navigate the complexities of your case, protect your rights, and work toward the best possible outcome. Our team will handle the legal intricacies of both the criminal case and the administrative proceedings with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Our aim is to minimize the impact of the charges and fight to preserve your driving privileges.

At Burglin Law Offices, P.C., we offer compassionate guidance while building a strategic defense tailored to the circumstances of your case. This could involve challenging evidence, questioning the legality of the traffic stop, or negotiating with prosecutors to reduce the penalties. With the stakes so high, having an advocate who understands California DUI laws is invaluable.

DMV Administrative Proceedings

The DMV hearing is not a criminal trial but rather an administrative review process focused solely on your driving privileges. To avoid the automatic suspension, you must request a DMV administrative hearing within 10 days of your arrest. If this request is not submitted in time, the suspension is enforced, and your options for appeal are significantly limited.

At the hearing, evidence is presented to determine whether the suspension is justified. While it may resemble a mini-trial, it lacks the same protections and formalities as a criminal court.

For out-of-state visitors arrested for DUI while in San Rafael, the process differs slightly. California may not have jurisdiction over your home state's license, but it can suspend your California driving privileges and report the conviction to your state's DMV, which may impose additional penalties.

Why Request a DMV Hearing?

Challenging the administrative suspension is often in your best interests, as it not only provides an opportunity to fight for your driving privileges but also buys time. While waiting for the hearing, you retain your license, allowing you to continue meeting your daily responsibilities. Furthermore, delaying the suspension can give your attorney time to resolve the criminal case favorably, which might strengthen your argument against the suspension.

These hearings require a strong legal strategy and an in-depth understanding of California's DUI laws. Success often depends on identifying procedural errors or lack of evidence in the case against you.

Legal Advocacy for Driver's License Reinstatement

DMV hearings require preparation and an attorney skilled in this area of law. Many lawyers may request hearings as a stalling tactic, but not all have the necessary knowledge to effectively advocate for their clients. Attorney Paul Burglin understands how to present compelling evidence and arguments to help you retain your driving privileges or obtain a restricted license.

Speak with a Skilled San Rafael DUI Attorney

Since 1985, Attorney Burglin has assisted thousands of clients with DUI-related issues, helping many retain their driver's licenses or secure restricted driving permits. As a co-author of California Drunk Driving Law, a comprehensive treatise on DUI defense, Mr. Burglin has the legal knowledge and practical experience to address even the most complex DUI cases.

If you are facing a DUI charge in San Rafael, contact Burglin Law Offices, P.C. today at 415-729-7300 to schedule a free consultation. We provide skilled representation to clients throughout San Rafael and surrounding Northern California communities. Do not wait to take action—your driving privileges and future may depend on it.