Losing your driving privileges can have a profound impact on your daily life, affecting your ability to work, attend school, or fulfill family obligations. In Florida, your driver’s license can be suspended for a variety of reasons, including accumulating too many traffic violation points, DUI charges, refusal to submit to chemical testing, or certain criminal convictions. At the Law Office of Adriana P. Santiesteban, we understand the critical importance of maintaining your driving privileges. Our firm is dedicated to providing skilled legal representation to help you challenge license suspensions and navigate the complexities of administrative hearings.
Attorney Santiesteban brings extensive experience in handling license suspension cases and is committed to protecting your rights. We offer personalized legal strategies tailored to your specific situation, working diligently to achieve the best possible outcome. Whether you’re facing a suspension due to traffic violations or DUI-related offenses, we are here to guide you through the process with professionalism and compassion.
Understanding License Suspensions in Florida
Florida employs a point system to monitor driving behavior and enforce traffic laws. Additionally, certain offenses result in automatic license suspension. Understanding the reasons behind your suspension is crucial in formulating an effective defense.
Common Reasons for License Suspension:
- Accumulation of Points:
- 12 points within 12 months: 30-day suspension.
- 18 points within 18 months: 3-month suspension.
- 24 points within 36 months: 1-year suspension.
- DUI Charges:
- Administrative suspension for failing or refusing a breathalyzer or chemical test.
- Refusal to Submit to Testing:
- First refusal: 1-year suspension.
- Second refusal: 18-month suspension and misdemeanor charges.
- Serious Traffic Offenses:
- Reckless driving, leaving the scene of an accident, or driving with a suspended license.
- Failure to Comply with Court Orders:
- Unpaid fines, child support arrears, or failure to appear in court.
- Habitual Traffic Offender (HTO) Status:
- Accumulating certain convictions can lead to a 5-year license revocation.
Our Legal Services for License Suspension Hearings
At the Law Office of Adriana P. Santiesteban, we provide comprehensive legal services to help you contest license suspensions and work toward reinstating your driving privileges.
Administrative Hearings Representation
When your license is suspended, you have a limited window to request a formal review hearing with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV). Acting quickly is essential.
- Formal Review Hearing:
- Request Submission: Assisting you in timely filing the request within 10 days of suspension notice.
- Evidence Gathering: Collecting necessary documents, police reports, and witness statements.
- Representation at Hearing: Advocating on your behalf before the DHSMV hearing officer.
- Challenging the Suspension: Questioning the legality of the stop, arrest procedures, and testing methods.
Hardship License Applications
If your suspension cannot be invalidated, we can help you apply for a hardship license, allowing you limited driving privileges.
- Eligibility Assessment: Determining if you qualify for a hardship license based on your suspension type.
- Application Assistance: Guiding you through the application process, including completion of required forms.
- Hearing Representation: Representing you at the administrative hearing to demonstrate your need for a hardship license.
- Compliance Guidance: Advising on mandatory requirements such as DUI school enrollment or ignition interlock device installation.
Court Representation
In cases where the suspension is related to criminal charges:
- Defense Against Underlying Charges: Providing legal representation to address the root cause of the suspension.
- Motion to Invalidate Suspension: Filing motions to challenge the suspension based on legal grounds.
- Negotiation with Prosecutors: Seeking plea agreements or alternative sentencing that may affect your driving privileges.
Reinstatement Assistance
- Compliance with Requirements: Assisting you in fulfilling all conditions for reinstatement, such as paying fines, completing educational programs, or serving suspension periods.
- Documentation Submission: Ensuring all necessary documents are properly submitted to the DHSMV.
- Follow-Up Support: Monitoring the status of your reinstatement and addressing any issues that arise.
Our Approach
Client-Centered Advocacy
Our firm is committed to providing personalized legal services focused on your specific needs and goals.
- Detailed Consultation: Understanding the circumstances leading to your suspension and your objectives.
- Transparent Communication: Keeping you informed about your case’s progress and explaining legal procedures clearly.
- Strategic Planning: Developing a customized defense strategy aimed at restoring your driving privileges.
- Aggressive Representation: Vigorously advocating for your rights in administrative hearings and court proceedings.
Expertise and Resources
- Knowledge of DHSMV Procedures: Familiarity with administrative hearing processes and requirements.
- Legal Research: Utilizing up-to-date legal resources to identify the best defense tactics.
- Professional Network: Collaborating with experts, when necessary, to strengthen your case.
Why Choose the Law Office of Adriana P. Santiesteban
- Experienced Attorney: Attorney Santiesteban has a proven track record in successfully handling license suspension cases.
- Dedication to Clients: We prioritize your needs and work diligently to achieve the best possible outcome.
- Local Expertise: Our familiarity with Miami-area administrative offices and courts enhances our ability to navigate your case effectively.
- Bilingual Services: Fluent in English and Spanish, we are equipped to serve Miami’s diverse community.
- Accessible and Responsive: We are readily available to address your questions and concerns promptly.
Contact Us
Don’t Let a License Suspension Halt Your Life
If you’re facing a license suspension, immediate action is crucial. The Law Office of Adriana P. Santiesteban is here to provide the skilled legal representation you need to challenge the suspension and work toward reinstating your driving privileges. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.
Phone: (786) 360-2122
Cell: (305) 202-4171
Fax: (305) 735-7663
Email: Adriana@Attorneyaps.com
Address: 11890 SW 8th Street, Suite 406, Miami, FL 33184
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How long do I have to request a license suspension hearing after receiving notice?
A: You have 10 calendar days from the date of the suspension notice to request a formal review hearing with the DHSMV. Acting promptly is essential.
Q: Can I drive after my license has been suspended?
A: Driving with a suspended license is illegal and can result in additional penalties, including fines and possible jail time. However, upon requesting a hearing, you may be eligible for a temporary permit pending the outcome.
Q: What is a hardship license, and am I eligible?
A: A hardship license allows you to drive for essential purposes, such as employment, education, or medical appointments. Eligibility depends on the reason for your suspension and compliance with certain requirements.
Q: Can an attorney appear on my behalf at the administrative hearing?
A: Yes, an attorney can represent you at the hearing, presenting evidence and arguments to challenge the suspension.
Q: What happens if I miss the deadline to request a hearing?
A: Missing the deadline generally results in automatic suspension without the opportunity to contest it. It’s crucial to act quickly.
Q: How can a license suspension affect my insurance rates?
A: A suspension can lead to significant increases in your auto insurance premiums. In some cases, you may be required to obtain SR-22 insurance, which is more expensive.
Q: What if my license was suspended due to unpaid fines or child support?
A: We can assist you in addressing the underlying issues, such as arranging payment plans or negotiating settlements, to facilitate license reinstatement.
Q: Is there a fee to request a formal review hearing?
A: Yes, there is a fee payable to the DHSMV when requesting the hearing. We can provide guidance on the current fee amount and payment procedures.
Q: Can I appeal the decision if the administrative hearing doesn’t go in my favor?
A: Yes, you may seek judicial review of the administrative decision by filing a petition in the circuit court. This process is complex, and legal representation is highly recommended.
Q: How long will the license suspension remain on my driving record?
A: Suspensions are part of your driving record and can remain for several years, affecting insurance rates and employment opportunities involving driving.
Losing your license doesn't have to be the end of the road.
Contact the Law Office of Adriana P. Santiesteban today to explore your options and take the first step toward regaining your driving privileges.
