License Suspension Procedure in Warren,   County, OH

Two Ways Your License Can Get Suspended in Ohio

In Ohio, your driver’s license can be suspended through two main avenues:

1. Court Order

  This occurs after a criminal conviction.

2. Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV)

  This happens through an administrative process.

Several scenarios can trigger either of these suspensions, such as driving under the influence (DUI), accumulating more than 12 points on your driver’s license, or refusing to submit to a chemical test when stopped on suspicion of DUI. How you contest the suspension will depend on whether it’s due to a criminal conviction or an administrative action.

Navigating this process can be confusing and overwhelming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the laws, such as those outlined in the Ohio Revised Code. That’s why seeking help from a Warren criminal lawyer is crucial. At Youngstown Criminal Law Group, our experienced Warren OVI lawyers provide the guidance you need to fight your license suspension effectively.

License Revocation by BMV

Your license can be suspended in Ohio under the following circumstances:

• Refusing to submit to a chemical test after being stopped and arrested for DUI/OVI.
• Having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or higher after a lawful stop.
• Failing to provide proof of auto insurance during a traffic stop.
• Causing an accident while uninsured.
• Accumulating 12 points within two years for various traffic violations.

Suspensions for any of these reasons follow a civil administrative procedure. Since they don’t result from criminal charges, you’ll face an Administrative License Suspension (ALS). It’s essential to work with a Warren criminal lawyer who can liaise directly with the BMV to challenge the suspension.

Receiving Notice of a License Suspension

If you receive an ALS during a traffic stop, you will get immediate notice. The police officer will confiscate your license and provide you with a copy of BMV Form 2255 concerning the ALS. You must stop driving immediately and contact an Ohio, Warren OVI lawyer.

For criminal charges, you have 30 days from the arraignment to appeal. If you accumulate 12 points or more, the BMV will send you a letter notifying you of the suspension, including its start and end dates. You need to file an appeal before the suspension start date.

Duration of ALS

The duration of your ALS can range from Class F to Class A:

• Class F

 This is the least severe and lasts until certain conditions are met.

• Class E

 This lasts for three months.

• Class A

 This is the most severe and can last for up to three years.

Your driving and suspension history will also influence the ALS duration.

Contesting an ALS

You should file an appeal as soon as possible. Whether you received the ALS at a traffic stop or via a letter, don’t delay in contacting your Warren OVI lawyer.

If you receive an ALS while facing criminal charges, your Ohio traffic lawyer will represent you in both civil and criminal matters. It’s important to note that even if your ALS appeal is successful, you might still lose driving privileges due to criminal charges. However, if the criminal charges are dropped or you are found not guilty, your Warren criminal lawyer can immediately work to reinstate your license.

Limited Driving Rights

Even if your driver’s license is suspended, you can retain or obtain some limited driving privileges. After a period of “Hard Suspension,” Warren OVI lawyer can request a restricted driver’s license from the court or the BMV, allowing you to drive to essential places like work, school, hospitals, and for court-related treatments.

Connect With WarrenTraffic Lawyer

At Youngstown Criminal Law Group, our experienced Ohio traffic lawyers are here to help you fight your license suspension and regain your driving privileges. Call (330) 992-3036 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.