Summary

It is possible to keep your driver’s license after a DUI if tests show you’re under the legal limit; a good lawyer can help navigate the process.

Highlights

  • Breath, urine, or chemical tests can determine sobriety.

  • A lawyer can assist if your license isn’t returned.

  • Officers must have reasonable grounds for DUI arrests.

  • A judge can review the officer’s actions and grounds for arrest.

  • Mistakes on suspension forms can affect outcomes.

  • Hearings are your right, and failure to provide them can be challenged.

  • Experienced legal representation is crucial for your case.

Transcript

It is possible to keep your driver’s license after a DUI. For example, if you take a breath test, urine test, or chemical test, and it comes back under 0.08, the officer should give your license back. If he doesn’t, a good lawyer will be able to get that back when they go to court. However, if it’s above 0.08 or if the officer has reasonable grounds to believe that you’re under the influence of alcohol, you can have a hearing on that and let a judge decide whether or not, in fact, the officer had reasonable grounds to make your arrest.

However, if the judge finds that the police officer had reasonable grounds to make your arrest, which essentially is probable cause, you will not get your license back at that time. Also, sometimes police officers make mistakes on the administrative license suspension form, or they may not give you the hearing that you’re entitled to under Ohio law. If that happens, a good lawyer will argue to the judge that you deserve to have your license back because the officer did not comply with procedure.

This is not child’s play. You need someone with knowledge, training, and experience to defend your case, protect your rights, and help you keep the job you’ve worked so hard for.