When you are arrested for a DWI in Louisiana, you immediately have two cases against you. The first is the driver's license part of your case. The second is the criminal case, which will be prosecuted by the City Attorney or District Attorney's Office. The LA Office of Motor Vehicles will attempt to suspend your driving privileges if you either failed a breath test (.08 or greater), refused to provide a sample of your breath or blood when requested by a law enforcement officer, and/or if you have waited longer than 30 days to create a Louisiana DMV hearing appointment.
It is important to have a skilled defense attorney on your side. At Dewey & Braud Law, you can trust that we will take the time to ensure your voice is heard and we will work to build you a strong defense.
If you have been charged with a DWI and your license is being suspended, schedule a case review with our attorney to see how you can build a defense and keep your license!
Why You Need a Suspended License Lawyer
At Dewey & Braud Law, we understand how stressful and confusing this process can be. Our experienced attorneys have a proven track record of winning administrative hearings and helping clients avoid DWI convictions. We take the time to listen to your story, address your concerns, and build a strong defense tailored to your case.
Common Reasons for a Driver's License Suspension in Louisiana
Your license can be suspended for a variety of reasons, including:
- Driving under the influence (DWI/DUI)
- Accumulating too many points on your driving record
- Failing to pay traffic tickets or court fines
- Refusing a breath or blood test during a traffic stop
- Failing to maintain car insurance
- Non-payment of child support
Each of these situations requires a tailored approach to resolve, and our team is here to guide you through the process.
Difference Between Revoked and Suspended License in Louisiana
It's important to understand the distinction between a revoked and a suspended license:
- Suspended License: A temporary loss of driving privileges, often with the possibility of reinstatement after meeting specific requirements.
- Revoked License: A more severe penalty where your license is canceled entirely. You must reapply for a new license after fulfilling all legal obligations.
If you're unsure about your situation, our suspended license lawyers can help clarify your status and outline the steps to regain your driving privileges.
Suspended License Reinstatement in Louisiana
The process for license suspension in Louisiana and reinstatement involves several steps:
- Request a DMV Hearing: You must request a hearing within 30 days of your arrest to challenge the administrative suspension. Missing this deadline means the suspension will automatically begin on the 31st day.
- Attend the Hearing: A hearing will be scheduled at the Division of Administrative Law. Your DMV hearing lawyer can represent you and argue on your behalf.
- Comply with Evidence Requirements: The evidence presented at the hearing must meet specific legal standards.
- Appeal if Necessary: If you lose the hearing, you have the right to appeal the decision.
In addition, if you are convicted of a DWI and have already served an administrative suspension for the same incident, that time will be deducted from your DWI conviction suspension. Whether an Article 894 dismissal is ordered after all probation requirements have been completed may also shorten any applicable license suspension.
How to Reinstate a Suspended License in Louisiana
To reinstate your license, you may need to:
- Obtain and file an SR22 form (proof of insurance)
- Install and maintain an ignition interlock device
- Submit a court order
- Pay DMV reinstatement fees
- Complete any required probation or community service
Louisiana Driver's License Reinstatement Fee
Generally, the reinstatement fee will be $60. However, if your license was suspended or revoked for an alcohol-related offense such as DUI, the fee will be $100, $200, or $300, depending on how many prior convictions you have.
Penalties for Driving on a Suspended License in Baton Rouge
Driving while your license is suspended is a serious offense in Louisiana. Penalties may include:
- Fines ranging from $500 to $2,500
- Jail time of up to six months
- Additional license suspension or revocation
- Increased insurance premiums
If you've been charged with driving under suspension in Louisiana, it's critical to consult with a skilled attorney to minimize the consequences.
What to Do If Your License Is Suspended in Another State
If your driver's license is suspended in another state, you cannot legally drive in Louisiana. The National Driver Register (NDR) ensures that states share information about license suspensions. To resolve this, you'll need to address the suspension in the state where it occurred before applying for reinstatement in Louisiana.
A Firm with You in Mind
Dewey & Braud Law has been successful in winning administrative hearings and keeping citizens free of DWI convictions. We take the time to listen to your side of the story and we address your concerns every step of the way. We know this process can be stressful and frightening. Trust a firm that focuses on you. If you have recently been arrested for DWI, act now and contact Dewey & Braud Law for a free consultation today.
Our defense attorneys are ready to fight and protect your freedoms. Schedule a free legal consultation now!
