License Suspension Procedure in St. Clairsville
There are Two Ways Your License Can Get Suspended in Ohio
- by a court order following a criminal conviction
- by the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) suspending it administratively.
There are various situations that can lead to either of these suspensions, such as driving under the influence, accumulating more than 12 points on your driver’s license, or refusing a chemical test when suspected of a DUI. It can be a confusing and overwhelming process for someone unfamiliar with the law. That’s why it’s important to seek assistance from a knowledgeable St. Clairsville traffic lawyer at St. Clairsville Criminal Law Group. With their expertise, you can easily navigate and fight against the suspension of your license.
License Revocation by OMBV
License suspension by the BMV in Ohio can occur in the following circumstances:
- Refusal to submit to a chemical test when stopped and arrested for DUI/OVI
- Having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or higher after a lawful traffic stop
- Failing to provide proof of auto insurance at the time of a traffic stop
- Causing an accident while driving uninsured
- Accumulating 12 points within 2 years on your driver’s license due to various traffic violations
It’s important to note that when your license is suspended for any of these reasons, it is considered a civil administrative procedure, rather than a result of St. Clairsville criminal lawyer charges. This will result in an administrative license suspension (ALS). To challenge the suspension, it is crucial to choose a St. Clairsville traffic lawyer who has direct experience working with the BMV. This will ensure you have the best chance at fighting the suspension effectively and successfully.
Receiving Notice of a License Suspension
Upon receiving a Notice of License Suspension (ALS), it is crucial to take immediate action. When faced with an ALS during a traffic stop, a police officer will confiscate your license and provide you with a copy of BMV Form 2255. At this point, it is essential to cease driving and promptly seek assistance from an Ohio traffic lawyer. Should you decide to appeal your criminal charges within 30 days of the arraignment, it is possible to have them dropped.
If your driver’s license accumulates 12 or more points, you will receive a letter from BMV notifying you about the suspension, including the start and end dates. It is crucial to file an appeal before the start date of the suspension.
Duration of ALS
The duration of the ALS varies based on the classification, ranging from Class F to Class A. Class F suspension ends when all necessary conditions are met, while Class E suspension typically lasts 3 months. Class A suspension is the harshest, lasting for 3 years. The duration of the suspension is also influenced by your driving and suspension history.
Contesting an ALS
If you wish to contest the ALS, it is vital to file an appeal without delay. Whether your license was suspended during a traffic stop or through a letter from BMV, it is imperative to contact your Youngstown traffic lawyer promptly.
In situations where you receive an ALS from BMV while facing criminal charges, the Ohio traffic lawyer will represent you on both the civil and criminal fronts. It is essential to note that even if the ALS appeal is successful, your driving privileges may still be affected by the St. Clairsville OVI lawyer charges. However, if your criminal charges are dropped or if you are found not guilty, your lawyer can expedite the process of reinstating your license.
Limited Driving Rights
Even if your driver’s license has been suspended, there are options to retain or regain limited driving privileges. Following a period of “Hard Suspension,” your attorney can petition the court or BMV for a restricted driver’s license. With this license, you will be able to drive to work, school, hospitals, and court-related treatments.
Connect With Youngstown Traffic Lawyer
Visit St. Clairsville Criminal Law Group and let our experienced Ohio traffic lawyer help you fight against license suspension and secure driving privileges in Ohio.
Call (330) 992-3036 or reach out to us online to schedule a free consultation.