If you have had your driver’s license revoked in Illinois, you will have the opportunity to have it reinstated or at least get a restricted driving permit. This involves attending a Secretary of State hearing.
The hearing is extremely important to getting your driving privileges back. However, the hearing procedures and requirements can be difficult for a layman to understand. It is therefore important to have an experienced attorney representing you throughout the process.
Part of preparing for the hearings is gathering as much information about the procedures and requirements as you can. However, in doing so, many people are bombarded with myths that result in them making poor decisions. Below are some common myths people have about the Secretary of State hearings.
You don’t need a lawyer for your hearing
You may have heard many people say that hiring an attorney for the hearing is a waste of time and money. However, if you want to increase your chances of getting your driving privileges back, it’s important to have the best legal representation you can get.
The Secretary of State hearing process can also be intimidating and confusing to say the least. Hiring an attorney will help you navigate the process with greater success.
Nobody gets their license back with the first hearing
Many people believe that being denied at the first hearing is a normal part of the process. However, it isn’t. With the right legal representation, you can get your driving privileges back after the first hearing. The sooner you get started on the hearing process, the better. You also improve your chances of success by hiring a skilled and experienced attorney.
Your lawyer can’t go into the hearing with you
This is false. Your lawyer will accompany you to the hearing and remain with you. However, they cannot testify on your behalf. In an informal hearing, your lawyer will only be present and not participate. This type of hearing involves answering questions asked by the hearing officer. The officer will write down your responses. Your lawyer can help you prepare for the hearing to improve the outcome of the hearing.
In a formal hearing, your lawyer may ask you questions instead of the state’s lawyer. However, the state’s lawyer and hearing officer may also choose to ask follow-up questions.
All in all, it is to your advantage to hire an experienced attorney. They will prepare you and help to boost your confidence as you face your hearing.
You can’t get your driving privileges back if you don’t admit to being an alcoholic
This is only true if you are an alcoholic and there is evidence to support this. If you are an alcoholic, you should not drink at all and show evidence that you are recovered in order to get your permit or license. However, if you aren’t an alcoholic and are able to drink responsibly, there is no reason to say you are an alcoholic to get your license or permit.
If you’re facing a Secretary of State hearing, be sure to get in touch with an experienced attorney to help you prepare for your hearing.
