DMV will suspend and revoke licenses for a variety of reasons. These actions usually stem from incidents which the Department thinks will pose a risk to public safety. Court convictions or problems while driving are usually sufficient for DMV to start seeking a suspension. Additionally, some suspensions are a result of failing to perform certain duties. Specifically, failure to appear in court or failure to pay a fine or child support can result in a suspension. DMV personnel are professionals whose job is to suspend and revoke licenses. DMV Lawyer can help you understand how the system works and provide information about the best course of action to take to reinstate a suspended driving privilege.
Not Sure Why You Are Suspended?
We can research your status at DMV and explain your options. Whether you are suspended for failing to appear, lack of insurance, class requirements, medical conditions, lack of skill, or too many points, there are certain steps you must take to get your license back. Click Here For More Information
Legal Updates
Texting Law
Starting January 1, 2009 a new law will go into effect where writing, sending, or reading a text-based communication while driving will be against the law for all drivers in California. This new law applies to electronic wireless communications devices used to manually communicate with any person using text-based communication, including, but not limited to, communications referred to as a text message, instant message, or electronic mail. Violating this law is punishable by a base fine of $20 for a first offense and $50 for each subsequent offense. With the addition of penalty assessments, fines can be more than triple the base fine amount. - October 2008
DMV Continuances
At a DMV hearing, the hearing officer may continue the case to compel the testimony of an officer to establish that he was on duty at the time of a vehicle stop. The court held that such a continuance was supported by good cause because it was not reasonably anticipated that the respondent would object to the officer's written statement on the basis that it was not established that the officer was on duty at the time of the vehicle stop. - July 2008
- Bussard v. Dept. of Motor Vehicles (2008) 164 Cal.App.4th 858
Suspensions For Boating Violations
DMV had been taking automatic suspensions of the driving privilege for boating under the influence convictions. Now, the Second Appellate District has said that DMV was not interpreting the law correctly by taking the suspensions. The case is not final but it looks as though under current law the suspensions are not valid and should be recinded. - June 2008
Out-Of-State-Convictions
Old out-of-state DUIs are causing suspensions. DUIs from other states have been just recently added to California driving records. This means that people who have been driving legally in California for years are suddenly becoming aware that their licenses have been suspended retroactively. Some suspensions have been backdated as much as 10 years. There are solutions to this problem. Sometimes the privilege can be reinstated by showing that the driver had a valid out-of-state license at the time of the offense. In other cases, an alcohol class must be completed. - May 2008