Immediately following a DUI or DWI arrest, you have a very short window to request a hearing with the Motor Vehicle Association (MVA) to plea to have your license reinstated or to challenge the charges that have been brought against you. It is very important to know that you will only get an MVA hearing if you request one.
Many individuals do not realize that there are two separate procedures involved in the Maryland DUI process. While penalties such as fines, potential jail time, and probation are determined in a criminal court case, the terms of your license suspension falls under the jurisdiction of the Motor Vehicle Association. If you have been charged with driving while intoxicated, you should hire a Frederick criminal defense attorney immediately to protect your interests and to assist you in requesting a MVA hearing.
You only have 10 days to mail in your MVA hearing request immediately after your arresting officer gives you a notice of suspension. If you fail to request a hearing within this time period, your suspension will start automatically 46 days after your arrest. The duration of your suspension depends on the severity of your offense. In some cases, your attorney can plea for limited driving privileges as opposed to a full suspension. Under these limited driving privileges you will be able to drive to work, school, or counseling sessions. You may also qualify for the Ignition Interlock Program.
When it comes to your MVA hearing, you do not want to take any chances. Having your license suspended can create serious difficulties with regard to ability to get to work, school, or other location. If you rely on your driving to get to and from work, losing the ability to drive may threaten your employment. At Law Offices of John R. Discavage, PA, we know what it takes to defend against a license suspension, and have a long history of success in doing so.
Contact a Frederick criminal defense attorney if you would like to defend your ability to operate a vehicle at your MVA hearing.