Driver’s License Revocation Advice From Attorneys In Des Moines
One of the most immediate concerns that people have when facing operating while intoxicated or driving under the influence (OWI/DUI) charges in Iowa is: “Will I lose my license?” Driving privileges are extremely important to most Americans, as a large percentage of our work, family and personal life activities depend upon driving.
The loss of your driving privileges is an extremely serious consequence of OWI/DUI. If you are facing these charges, it is important to work with a criminal defense lawyer who has experience working with the Department of Transportation (DOT) to help clients retain their licenses.
Our lawyers can help you through every aspect of DUI/OWI charges, including the administrative process with the DOT, to help you retain your driving privileges.
You Have To File An Appeal Within 10 Days Or You Will Lose Your Iowa License
License revocation is the default after a DUI/OWI. After being charged with an OWI/DUI, you will automatically lose your license if you do not file an appeal within 10 days. If you are late on this filing, you will lose your license.
Although the criminal and administrative processes can seem confusing or intimidating, and the prospect of a revoked license might be frightening for you, the OWI defense attorneys at Spellman Law, P.C., have experience helping clients through this process. Our team will help you file the appeal of your license revocation in a timely fashion and will represent you at the administrative license revocation hearings.
The Difference Between Driver’s License Revocation And Suspension
Driver’s license revocation and suspension are terms often used interchangeably, but they represent different legal actions. A suspended license means temporarily losing your driving privileges for a specified amount of time that is determined in court. After paying necessary fines, completing a driver’s education course or completing any other court order, you can likely regain your license. Alternatively, a revoked license means losing your license indefinitely. If you want to get a revoked license back, you must reapply, and you often meet more stringent conditions, including passing tests and evaluations.
In Iowa, an OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) offense typically leads to a revocation rather than a suspension. This often means that an OWI conviction will require more work to restore your license. Knowing the difference between a revoked and suspended license is important because each has its own course of action to undo. As your OWI defense lawyer, we can help you through the challenges of getting your license back and restoring your driving privileges.
How Long Will You Lose Your License After An Iowa OWI?
The length of time you will lose your license following an Iowa OWI conviction depends on whether it’s your first, second or subsequent offense. Depending on the charges you are facing, the consequences of a conviction can include:
- First offense – revoked license of up to one year
- Second offense – revoked license of up to two years
- Third offense or higher – revoked license of up to six years and a Class D felony charges
The consequences of a revoked license are in addition to other court penalties, including heavy fines and significant jail time, which emphasizes the importance of seeking skilled legal representation to defend you against your criminal charges. We can help you understand what is at stake in your charges and build a personalized defense against them.
Schedule A Free Initial Consultation With An Experienced Attorney
One of the most important things you can do after being charged with OWI/DUI is to call an attorney. We offer free initial consultations to encourage people in this situation to call the firm and get their legal defense started before it is too late and they lose their driving privileges. Reach us 24/7.
Call our office in West Des Moines at 515-222-4330. We represent clients throughout central Iowa.