ALR Hearing

A professional driver’s license is more than just a credential. It represents years of dedication, serves as a means to build a career, and provides the foundation for supporting families. However, facing an accusation or criminal charge can jeopardize this crucial asset. If you find yourself in such a situation, seeking immediate assistance from a criminal defense attorney is essential.

Many professions—from doctors and teachers to CDL holders, firefighters, pilots, and pharmacists—require a professional license to operate. Losing that license due to criminal charges can spell the end of a successful career. For those in Somerset, staying informed and taking the proper legal steps is critical for retaining your rights.

DUI and License Suspension in Somerset

The rise in DUI cases has made it a major concern for law enforcement in Somerset and across Pennsylvania. These incidents compromise road safety, leading to serious accidents and injuries. To address this, authorities have tightened measures against DUI offenders. If charged with a DUI in Somerset, your professional license could face suspension ranging from six to eighteen months, depending on your prior record.

Once charged, you’ll receive a Notice of Suspension. Under Pennsylvania law, failing to schedule an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing within 30 days will lead to an automatic suspension of your driving privileges. Securing experienced representation from a Somerset DUI attorney is vital to navigating this process and ensuring your case is handled professionally.

What You Need to Know About ALR Hearings

An ALR hearing determines whether the suspension or revocation action taken against your driver’s license is justified. Here are some key points regarding these hearings:

• You must schedule an ALR hearing within 40 days of being charged to avoid suspension of your driving privileges.
• These hearings do not evaluate the validity of your arrest or suspension but focus on specific administrative factors.
• Ignoring the license suspension does not acknowledge it; legal steps must be taken.
• ALR hearings cannot reduce the suspension period or alter orders related to ignition interlock device requirements.
• If you surrender your Pennsylvania license in another state, it does not count as acknowledgment of suspension or credit against penalties.
• Hardship or extenuating circumstances are not considered when applying for an Occupational Limited License (OLL) or a Probationary License (PL).
• A non-refundable fee of $100 is required to schedule an ALR hearing.

Understanding these details is essential to making informed decisions. Consulting with a Somerset criminal lawyer can help ensure you take the appropriate steps during this time.

How a Lawyer Can Help You

Facing an ALR can feel overwhelming, but skilled legal representation makes all the difference. I’m attorney Sean Logue, a trusted Somerset DUI attorney with years of experience defending clients against DUI and OUI charges. With a 10.0 Avvo rating, my commitment is to protect the rights and licenses of my clients.

At your ALR hearing, I will:

• Offer a well-prepared defense that addresses every critical detail of your case.
• Clearly explain how your rights may have been violated and highlight any procedural errors made by law enforcement.
• Build a strong argument to show that your license revocation is unwarranted.

For Somerset residents, an ALR hearing serves as a valuable chance to contest license suspensions and advocate for ongoing driving privileges. By working with a knowledgeable Somerset criminal lawyer, you can significantly improve your chances of retaining your license.

Schedule Your ALR Consultation Today

If you’ve received a suspension notice or are preparing for an ALR hearing, expert legal counsel is just a call away. I am ready to review the details of your case and discuss strategies to safeguard your license.

Free consultations are available at Somerset. Call me today at (844) PITT-DUI or contact me online to schedule your consultation right away. Don’t wait until it’s too late to take action.