Suspended Driver’s License
Is It Possible To Reinstate Your Suspended Driver’s License?
Yes, It Is Possible To Reinstate Your Suspended Driver’s License – But Only With The Best Colorado Springs Traffic Attorney Who Brings Results.
I Can Help You – But Only If You Act NOW! – Jeremy Loew
In Colorado Springs, as well as throughout the state of Colorado, dealing with a suspended driver’s license can be a complex and stressful situation, especially if the suspension is due to traffic violations. For individuals facing this challenge, seeking the expertise of a traffic ticket lawyer can be crucial in addressing the issue and potentially reinstating driving privileges. This discussion will cover the key aspects of a suspended driver’s license in Colorado, the role of traffic ticket lawyers in such cases, and the legal considerations involved.
Causes of Driver’s License Suspension
In Colorado, there are various reasons why a driver’s license may be suspended. Some of the most common causes include:
Traffic Violations and Accumulation of Points: Colorado operates under a point system, where each traffic violation is assigned a certain number of points. Accumulating too many points within a specific time period can lead to a license suspension. For instance, adult drivers (21 years and older) may face suspension if they accumulate:
- 12 points within 12 months, or
- 18 points within 24 months.
- For minors or drivers under 21 years old, the threshold for point accumulation is even lower, leading to quicker suspensions.
DUI/DWAI Convictions: A driver convicted of Driving Under the Influence (DUI) or Driving While Ability Impaired (DWAI) will typically face a mandatory suspension of their driver’s license. The length of the suspension can vary based on factors such as blood alcohol content (BAC), whether it’s a first offense, and any aggravating factors.
Failure to Pay Traffic Tickets: Failing to pay a traffic ticket, appear in court, or comply with other court orders related to traffic violations can also lead to the suspension of a driver’s license.
Driving Without Insurance: Colorado law requires all drivers to carry liability insurance. A driver caught operating a vehicle without proof of insurance may have their license suspended.
Unpaid Child Support: While unrelated to traffic violations, failure to pay court-ordered child support can result in a license suspension as a method of enforcement.
The Role of a Traffic Ticket Lawyer
A traffic ticket lawyer in Colorado Springs plays a critical role in helping individuals navigate the legal system and contest or address the issues leading to a suspended license. Here are some of the key services they provide:
Legal Representation and Advice: A lawyer specializing in traffic violations can provide clear advice regarding the specific circumstances of the case. This includes reviewing the driver’s history, understanding the charges, and evaluating the best course of action for the individual.
Point Reduction or Dismissal of Charges: One of the primary ways that a lawyer can assist is by negotiating with prosecutors or presenting arguments to reduce the charges against the driver. For instance, a lawyer may be able to have a traffic ticket reduced to a non-point violation, which would prevent a license suspension.
Challenging the Suspension: If a driver’s license is suspended due to points accumulation or other violations, a lawyer can challenge the suspension in a hearing before the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). A skilled attorney may argue that the points were incorrectly assessed or that mitigating circumstances justify a reduction in penalties.
Assistance with DUI/DWAI Cases: DUI and DWAI cases are complex and carry serious penalties, including license suspension. An experienced lawyer can help by contesting the legality of the traffic stop, the accuracy of breathalyzer or blood test results, and other procedural issues. Successfully challenging a DUI charge can prevent or shorten the suspension period.
License Reinstatement Assistance: If the suspension has already taken place, a traffic ticket lawyer can help guide the driver through the reinstatement process. This often involves meeting specific requirements set by the DMV, such as completing a defensive driving course, paying fines, or installing an ignition interlock device in the vehicle for DUI cases.
Colorado DMV Hearings and Reinstatement
When a driver’s license is suspended in Colorado, the driver has the right to request a hearing with the DMV to contest the suspension. These hearings are separate from criminal court proceedings and are administrative in nature. A traffic ticket lawyer can represent the driver at these hearings, presenting evidence and arguments on their behalf.
In the case of Colorado’s point-based suspension, the lawyer may argue that the point total was miscalculated, or they may provide evidence of mitigating factors that warrant leniency. For DUI-related suspensions, the lawyer may challenge the basis for the suspension, such as the validity of the chemical test results or the legality of the traffic stop.
After a suspension period has been completed, drivers must meet certain criteria to have their license reinstated. This process typically includes:
Paying reinstatement Fees
- Providing proof of insurance (SR-22 insurance may be required for certain violations like DUI), and
- Completing any court-ordered requirements, such as alcohol education courses for DUI cases.
A traffic ticket lawyer can assist by ensuring that all paperwork is properly filed and that the driver is in full compliance with the reinstatement requirements.
Consequences of Driving with a Suspended License
Driving on a suspended license is a serious offense in Colorado and can lead to further legal consequences. If caught, a driver may face fines, an extended suspension period, and even jail time. An experienced Colorado Springs lawyer can provide crucial defense in such cases, potentially reducing the penalties or getting the charges dropped based on procedural errors or other factors.
Dealing with a suspended driver’s license in Colorado Springs is a complex legal issue that can arise from traffic violations, DUIs, or other circumstances. A traffic ticket lawyer plays a vital role in defending against license suspensions, reducing points or charges, and assisting with reinstatement. By providing legal representation and guidance, they help individuals regain their driving privileges and minimize the long-term impact of a suspension on their lives.