A Key West DUI Defense Lawyer Will Fight to Protect Your Right to Drive After a Drunk Driving Conviction
You need your driver’s license to get to work, transport your kids, go to doctors’ appointments, and run errands, and you may miss your independence. Whether your Florida driver’s license has been suspended or revoked, we encourage you to contact a Key West DUI defense lawyer at The Law Offices of Robert David Malove to protect your rights.
How to Get Your License Back After a Florida Driver’s License Suspension
Regaining your driver's license after a DUI conviction in Key West involves several steps:
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Complete Your Suspension Period
The first step is to serve the driver’s license suspension period mandated by the court. The duration of your suspension depends on the number of points on your license during a certain period of time. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles:
- 12 points in a 12-month period leads to a 30-day license suspension
- 18 points in an 18-month period leads to a three-month license suspension
- 24 points in a 36-month period leads to a one-year license suspension
The beginning of your license suspension may be what is known as a “hard suspension.” During this time, you cannot apply for a hardship license.
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Complete a DUI Education Course
Florida law requires completion of a DUI education program before license reinstatement. This course covers the dangers of impaired driving and strategies to prevent future offenses.
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Comply With Other Court-Ordered Requirements
In some cases, the court puts further conditions on your license reinstatement. For example, you may be required to:
- Complete a substance abuse evaluation to determine if you need additional treatment or counseling
- Purchase and install an ignition interlock system
- Do community service
- Pay fines
- Comply with probation terms
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Obtain SR-22 Insurance Certification
SR-22 is not a type of insurance policy. Instead, it is a certification that your car insurance company files with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles to confirm that you have the necessary insurance.
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Pay Reinstatement Fees
There are various fees associated with license reinstatement, including administrative fees and reinstatement charges. These must be paid before you get your license back.
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Apply for Reinstatement
Once you've completed all requirements, you can apply for reinstatement at your local Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) office.
Your License Is Worth Fighting For
Regaining your driver's license after a Key West DUI conviction is crucial. With a driver’s license, you may:
- Work. Many jobs require a valid driver's license, either for commuting or as part of job duties. Losing your license could interfere with your current employment or limit future job opportunities.
- Regain your independence. Public transportation options in Key West and Monroe County can be limited. A valid license allows you to be independent and attend to daily responsibilities without relying on others.
- Participate in family life. A driver's license is often essential if you have family responsibilities, such as picking up children from school or caring for elderly relatives.
How a Key West DUI Defense Lawyer Can Help
A Key West DUI defense lawyer may be able to help even if you’ve already been sentenced and your driver’s license has been suspended. Attorney Robert Malove is a founding member of the National College for DUI Defense and Florida Bar Board Certified as an expert/specialist in Criminal Trial Law. Robert and his team can:
- Help you navigate the legal process. License reinstatement is not automatic. We can guide you through every step of the legal process and paperwork.
- Advocate for early license reinstatement. In some cases, it may be possible to petition for early reinstatement of your license. We can assess your situation and advocate on your behalf if this option is available.
- Represent you in administrative hearings. We may represent you if you're eligible for a hardship license or need to attend administrative hearings related to your license suspension.
- Ensure you have everything you need for a license reinstatement. Your attorney can help ensure you fully comply with all court-ordered requirements and DUI program mandates, which is crucial for successful license reinstatement.
- Provide personalized guidance. Every DUI case is unique. We can provide personalized guidance based on the specific circumstances of your case and your individual needs.
A DUI conviction doesn't have to define your future. With the right approach and professional legal assistance, you can work towards reinstating your license, restoring your driving privileges, and moving forward with your life.