Maryland MVA Hearing Lawyer

If you are facing a DUI conviction in Maryland, you may not be aware that you could face the prospect of undergoing both criminal and administrative proceedings related to the charge or charges in question. If you have lost your license due to a Maryland DUI related charge (or if you believe you may), it’s a good idea to consult a Maryland MVA hearing lawyer.

Because Maryland’s DUI and DWI laws impose a very real possibility that you may lose your driving privileges for a period of time after a DUI or DWI conviction, Maryland’s Motor Vehicle Administration has created a hearing process to determine if it is possible to have your driver’s license reinstated to some degree. Having an experienced Maryland MVA hearing lawyer can help you by explaining the process of the administrative hearing procedures while looking for ways to have your driving privileges restored.

What is a MVA Hearing?

If you have been arrested for blowing a .08, or higher, on a breathalyzer test during a police stop, your driver’s license will automatically become suspended. The police officer that conducted the breathalyzer test will then issue you a temporary driver’s license. The temporary driver’s license will last 45 days and you will then have your driving privileges suspended 46 days following your arrest. However, that can change if you request a hearing with Maryland’s Motor Vehicle Administration.

If you request a hearing with the Motor Vehicle Administration within 10 days of your arrest, you may be able to stop your suspension until the hearing can be held.

Why Request a Hearing?

A hearing can be requested to show why your driving privileges should not be suspended. For example, if your job requires your ability to drive, it is possible that the Motor Vehicle Administration will lessen your suspension penalty. Additionally, it is possible that you can make some concessions during the hearing that will allow for you to legally get back out onto the road.

Maryland’s Motor Vehicle Administration has instituted an Ignition Interlock Program which allows you, if you currently have your driving privileges suspended due to a DUI or DWI, to have your privileges upgraded to “restricted” as long as you participate in the ignition interlock device program. The program also allows you to have your driving privileges upgraded from “revoked” to “suspended” if you participate in the program.

If you participate in the ignition interlock device program, you are responsible for all installation and maintenance costs. Further, you are required to have the device inspected every 30 days to make certain that the device is working properly and that tampering with the device did not occur.

Does a Hearing Cost Money?

Yes. A hearing with the Motor Vehicle Administration costs $150 for the initial filing fee.

How can a Maryland MVA Hearing Lawyer Help?

An experienced Maryland MVA hearing lawyer will be able to assist you in the request, and preparation, of your MVA hearing. There are many technical defenses that apply to MVA hearings thus having an experienced lawyer by your side will put you in a stronger overall position.

If your driving privileges have been suspended and you are interested in exploring ways to have them reinstated, please contact our firm.