ALR Hearing

Obtaining a professional driver’s license or a commercial driver’s license (CDL) represents a massive investment of time, effort, and money. For many individuals, this license is not just a document; it is the foundation of their career and the primary means of supporting their families. However, being accused of a crime can instantly threaten this stability. If you find yourself in this precarious situation in Harrisburg, it is absolutely vital to seek immediate counsel to protect your livelihood.

Accusations of criminal conduct, particularly those involving vehicles, can lead to the revocation of a professional license and the untimely end of a promising career. This risk impacts a wide range of professionals, including doctors, school teachers, CDL holders, firefighters, airline pilots, pharmacists, and many others in Pennsylvania who rely on a license to practice.

Law enforcement agencies in Dauphin County and throughout the state are increasingly vigilant regarding Driving Under the Influence (DUI) incidents. Because these events compromise road safety and lead to crashes and injuries, authorities enforce strict penalties. If you are charged with a DUI offense, you face a license suspension ranging from 6 to 18 months, depending on your prior record. Upon receiving a Notice of Suspension, the clock starts ticking immediately. State laws dictate that failing to schedule an Administrative License Revocation hearing within 30 days results in the loss of driving privileges. In these high-stakes moments, a Harrisburg DUI attorney can be the difference between retaining your career and losing it.

What You Need to Know

Under Pennsylvania state law, police officers are authorized to confiscate your license if your Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) registers at 0.08% or higher. Additionally, due to implied consent laws, refusing a breathalyzer or blood test can also result in immediate suspension. It is essential to understand the specific nuances of these regulations. A Harrisburg federal criminal lawyer from our team can help explain how the following key points apply to your case:

• Strict Deadlines: While 30 days is a common standard, specific regulations indicate that failure to schedule an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing within 40 days of the charge can also lead to a suspension of driving privileges.
• Scope of Hearing: An ALR hearing is a specific administrative procedure and does not necessarily determine if the suspension or revocation action by law enforcement was valid in a broader criminal context.
• Passive Non-Driving: Simply choosing not to drive does not serve as a formal acknowledgment of your suspension.
• Hearing Limitations: These hearings cannot be utilized to reduce the duration of a suspension or revocation, nor can they alter orders regarding ignition interlock requirements.
• Out-of-State Licenses: Surrendering a Pennsylvania license in another state does not qualify for credit scores or serve as an acknowledgment of a suspension.
• Hardship Exceptions: The Department of Transportation generally does not consider personal hardship or extenuating circumstances when determining eligibility for an Occupational Limited License (OLL) or Probationary License (PL).
• Mandatory Fees: A non-refundable fee of $100 is required to request an ALR hearing.

How Can a Lawyer Help You?

Facing an Administrative License Revocation is a complex legal challenge that demands skilled representation. At Logue Law Group, we specialize in defending against DUI/OUI charges. With a 10.0 Avvo rating, our group is dedicated to defending the rights and privileges of our clients in Dauphin County. As your Harrisburg DUI attorney, we approach every hearing with diligence, providing clear and concise statements that address the essential facts of your case.

We utilize our extensive experience to build a compelling argument on your behalf. We aim to demonstrate how your rights may have been violated, why the license revocation was procedurally illegal, or how the arresting officers failed to follow proper protocols. An ALR hearing often presents the best opportunity for residents to prove why they should retain their driving privileges. A knowledgeable Harrisburg federal criminal lawyer will handle all necessary groundwork to ensure your arguments are strong and your interests are protected.

If you have received a suspension notice, do not wait until the deadline passes. Visit our office in Harrisburg to discuss your plans for an ALR hearing. We offer a free consultation to review your case. Call us at 412-387-6901 or contact us online to speak with a dedicated Harrisburg DUI attorney today.