Michigan Criminal Lawyers Blog
If you have been convicted on charges of DUI multiple times in Michigan, your driver’s license may have been revoked. While you may not have given it much thought, if you decide to move to another state it won’t be as easy as applying for a driver’s license in that state. In fact, it’s quite a complex process to have your driving privilege restored; this is why it is recommended that you consult with a Michigan driver’s license restoration attorney.
So, what exactly happens if you establish residency in another state and your drivers license has been revoked in Michigan? Essentially, you must complete a Michigan drivers license restoration appeal successfully in order to obtain clearance. If the process goes smoothly (which is not a given), the way should be cleared so that you can obtain your license in the state you have relocated to.
Basically, there are two options for having your license restored in Michigan, so that you can obtain a driver’s license in your new state of residence. You may choose to file an administrative review, which is done through mail and bypasses the appeal hearing, or you may attend the live hearing in person. Either way, there is a substantial amount of documentation necessary to be successful in having your license restored. Your Michigan driver’s license restoration lawyer can guide you through the process to ensure that you have completed all required documentation correctly, so that you have the best chance of success.
Whether you choose to file an administrative review by mail or attend the hearing in person, you will be required to submit documents which support your sobriety. These documents may include letters from family members, sign in sheets demonstrating your attendance at AA meetings, or treatment records. You must also submit a Substance Use Evaluation which will be provided by a substance abuse counselor. Depending on your own particular situation, there may be additional documentation required; your attorney can help you to ensure all of the necessary support documents are filed.
Out of state appeals can be challenging; often times, evaluators outside of the state of Michigan are not familiar with filling out the Substance Use Evaluation form, which must be done properly. In order to ensure the best chance of having your license restored so that you can obtain a driver’s license in your new state of residence, it is critical that you obtain the assistance of an experienced and skilled attorney with a successful track record in driver’s license restoration.