The California Department of Motor Vehicles, or DMV, is the administrative state agency which regulates all things related to motor vehicles and the licensing of those who drive them. When most people think of the DMV they recall a place where they wait in excruciating long lines to get their driver’s license or car registration. Yet there is another branch of the DMV which handles the regulation, and in some cases, suspension of your license.
The DMV operates independently of any Court in the State. It has it’s own administrative authority and may take any action regarding your license irrespective of a judge’s order or the outcome of your criminal case. If your license has been suspended by the DMV you need a qualifed DMV lawyer in San Diego to handle your matter.
DMV administrative hearings are very similar to bench trials, and like court trials may involve complex evidentiary and other procedural issues. You may subpoena witnesses, including police officers, and if you lose you have the right to appeal your matter through the court system. Below is a list of common reasons your license may be suspended by the DMV.
- DUI Arrest
- Failure to Appear
- Negligent Operator Determination
- Re-Examination
- Failure to Pay Child Support
- Convicted of Second Reckless Driving Offense
- Hit and Run
- Involved in Accident Involving Serious Death or Injury
This is a brief list. There are other reasons you license may be suspended by the DMV. Regardless of the underlying reason your license is suspended, it is essential to demand a hearing to contest the suspension. It is important to recognize in many cases you only have a few days to request a DMV hearing, and if you neglect to request your DMV hearing in a timely manner your will lose your right to contest your license suspension. Don’t risk your license. DMV license suspension hearings may be complicated. If your license has been suspended by the DMV contact me now. I offer free, and absolutely confidential case evaluations on all DMV license suspension matters.