How to Get an Illinois Revoked License Reinstated
In the state of Illinois, your license can be revoked if you commit a serious driving-related offense or series of offenses such as DUI, reckless conduct or leaving the scene of an accident. Although Illinois reserves the right to maintain a license revocation indefinitely, you can petition the Office of the Illinois Secretary of State--typically after one year--for a hearing to appeal for license reinstatement. If you’re given the opportunity to appeal, reinstatement depends entirely on the severity of the violation, the expertise of the lawyer you hire and the final decision of the hearing officers.
Instructions
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Contact a lawyer who specializes in Illinois license revocation and the offense(s) you committed. It is unwise to pursue license reinstatement without the support of an experienced lawyer. A lawyer will help walk you through the process from beginning to end (petition, hearing and possible reinstatement) and help with the many administrative tasks required for an appeal (for example, supply or review any forms/paperwork you need or remind you of important dates).
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Complete all required documentation legibly, honestly and on time. Late or illegible documents can result in processing delays or repeated fees. Lying on any documentation, or later during your hearing, shows that you're willing to commit perjury--an action that proves your unwillingness and inability to abide by the law and act in the responsible manner required for regaining your driving privileges. Perjury can lead to permanent license revocation and result in jail time.
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Pay all fees as required by the office of the Illinois Secretary of State, your lawyer or any other parties involved.
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Arrive at any required meetings and your hearing on time and as directed by the hearing officers and/or your lawyer.
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Make your case. Supply any testimony and evidence supporting the reason for your appeal.
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Tips & Warnings
Always go to a lawyer for Illinois driver’s license reinstatement advice and assistance, as you shouldn’t use this article as legal advice. Instead, this article serves as a general guide to the process of getting a revoked license reinstated in the state of Illinois.
References
- Photo Credit Doug Menuez/Photodisc/Getty Images
Comments
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Anonymous
May 19, 2011
With regards to revocation due to a DUI arrest (even if your court case was reduced), working with a Treatment Provider who specializes in Secretary of State Hearings is an respected alternative to hiring an attorney. Seeking a provider who has experience with the Secretary of State is less expensive and offers similar benefits to an attorney but can also serve you as a valuable resource in finding the right attorney. As part of your hearing, you will be REQUIRED to visit a treatment provider to obtain an updated (completed within 6 months) evaluation, proof of successful completion of the recommended treatment program and if you have been denied at a previous hearing you may need the treatment provider to respond to specific reasons why you were denied. Whereas hiring an attorney is optional but may increase your chances to obtain driving relief. An experienced provider would provide you with information on how to apply for a hearing, work with you individually on what to expect at a hearing, and at a client’s request, can accompany their clients at their hearing and/or provide referrals to attorneys who have shown positive results with their other clients. Some providers also hold group presentations and/or have attorneys come out and give additional information to their clients.