ALR Hearing Attorneys in Austin
Travis County Lawyers for Administrative License Revocation Hearings
At Smith & Vinson Law Firm, we understand the importance of effective defense in ALR hearings. Our attorneys are dedicated to providing the best possible representation. We guide you through the entire ALR process, ensuring you meet all deadlines and understand each step. We thoroughly investigate your case, gathering and analyzing evidence to support your defense. At the hearing, we present a strong case to protect your driving privileges. Additionally, we can advise you on how the ALR hearing might impact your criminal case, working to minimize any negative consequences.
With years of experience in ALR hearings, we are committed to protecting your rights and preserving your future. We work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for you. If you or a loved one is facing a DWI charge and an ALR hearing in Texas, don't hesitate to contact us for a free consultation. We can discuss your case, explain your options, and help you make an informed decision about how to proceed. Contact us today to start building your defense!
Our team of Austin DWI lawyers is here to fight for your rights, equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate your Texas ALR hearing successfully. We represent clients throughout Travis County, Williamson County, and Hays County, including Austin, Georgetown, San Marcos, Round Rock, Temple, Cedar Park, and beyond.
Call (512) 359-3743 to get legal assistance from our Austin ALR hearing attorneys today.
What Is the Administrative License Revocation Program?
In Texas, refusing to submit to a blood or breath test after being arrested for DWI can result in a license suspension of up to two years. The Administrative License Revocation (ALR) Program, managed by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), handles these situations. This civil administrative process is separate from criminal court proceedings and applies to individuals arrested for DWI or BWI who either refused or failed a blood or breath test.
Upon failing or refusing a test, the arresting officer will confiscate your driver's license and issue a temporary driving permit. You have only 15 days to request an ALR hearing; otherwise, your license will be automatically suspended. The purpose of the ALR process is to determine whether your driver's license should be suspended. Given the tight deadline, it is crucial to consult with an experienced attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can represent you at the ALR hearing, helping to protect your driving privileges and avoid a potential suspension.
Why Do I Need to Request an ALR Hearing?
Requesting an ALR hearing as quickly as possible is crucial if you want to prevent your license from being suspended. By requesting this hearing, you will force the DPS to prove they have a legitimate case against you. The DPS must demonstrate that the arresting officer had reasonable suspicion or probable cause to arrest you for DWI. Acting quickly to request an ALR hearing gives you a chance to challenge the suspension and defend your driving privileges.
How to Win an ALR Hearing
If the DPS is unable to establish strong reasoning for your DWI arrest, you can win your ALR hearing by default. However, winning your hearing will require the skills and resources of an experienced Austin DWI defense law firm. This is why it is important to hire a lawyer with a solid track record in handling complex DWI cases.
If you did not submit to chemical testing, DPS will need to prove the following things:
- There was reasonable suspicion or probable cause for your arrest.
- There was probable cause to make the officer believe you were operating your vehicle intoxicated.
- When you were placed under arrest, there was a proper request for you to submit to chemical testing.
- You refused the officer’s request for chemical testing.
If you failed a blood or breath test, DPS will need to prove the following:
- You had a BAC of 0.08% or higher when you were operating your vehicle.
- There was probable cause or suspicion for you being stopped by police.
Why You Need Effective ALR Hearing Representation in Texas
Having effective ALR hearing representation is essential to protecting your rights and securing your future.
Having your DWI attorney represent you at the ALR hearing can provide several long-term benefits:
- Protecting your driving privileges: A skilled attorney can help you avoid license suspension by presenting a strong defense. This can be crucial for maintaining your ability to drive to work, school, or other essential activities.
- Strengthening your defense: The outcome of your ALR hearing can affect your criminal DWI case. A successful ALR hearing can provide leverage during plea negotiations and may even lead to the dismissal of your criminal charges.
- Preserving your reputation: A license suspension can have a lasting impact on your personal and professional life. By avoiding a suspension, you can protect your reputation and continue driving to work or school as normal.
- Reducing insurance costs: A license suspension can lead to higher insurance premiums. Avoiding a suspension can save you money on your auto insurance in the long run.
Talk with Our Austin ALR Hearing Attorneys: (512) 359-3743
We are here to assist you through the entire ALR process to ensure that your rights and interests are fully protected. Our skilled ALR hearing attorneys in Austin have a stellar record trying DWI cases. We can create and walk you through a customized legal strategy designed to maximize the results of your case. Let us put our skills to work for you today!
Contact us for help with the ALR hearing in Austin and surrounding areas. Call (512) 359-3743!
Texas Administrative License Revocation FAQ
Can I drive while waiting for my ALR hearing?
Yes, the Notice of Suspension serves as a temporary driving permit, allowing you to drive legally until your hearing.
What should I bring to the ALR hearing?
You should bring any relevant documents, such as your Notice of Suspension, and any evidence that supports your case. Your Austin license revocation attorney will advise you on what specific documents and evidence are needed.
What are the possible outcomes of an ALR hearing?
The administrative law judge may either uphold the suspension of your driver’s license or rescind the suspension, allowing you to retain your driving privileges.
How long will my license be suspended if I lose the ALR hearing?
The suspension period varies: 90 days for a first-time failed test, up to one year for subsequent failed tests, 180 days for a first-time refusal, and up to two years for subsequent refusals.
Can I appeal the ALR hearing decision?
Yes, you can appeal the decision to a state district court. It’s important to consult with an attorney to discuss the specifics of your case and the likelihood of success on appeal.
How can Smith & Vinson Law Firm help with my ALR hearing?
Our experienced attorneys can guide you through the process, challenge the evidence against you, and represent you at the hearing to protect your driving privileges.
Our Client Reviews
Earning Our Reputation by Protecting Yours
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Smith and Vinson are absolutely incredible! They go above and beyond to help their clients and have a track record of success in getting cases dismissed. Their aggressive approach and unwavering dedication make them stand out from the rest.- Linda W.
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What sets this firm apart is their unwavering dedication to their clients. They listen attentively, provide clear guidance, and approach every case with the utmost diligence. Their attention to detail is truly impressive, and they leave no stone unturned.- Former Client
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When in battle you need people by your side who are fierce enough to face the opposition with you. Brad and Jarod far exceeded my expectations with their passion for winning and attention to detail.- Nikki C.
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After the Jury was selected, the first witness was called to the stand, and Brad and Jarrod imploded the State's case. Moments later, the case was dismissed. I couldn't be any more thankful for Smith & Vinson.- Former Client
A Proven Track Record
Check Out Our Recent Case Results
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Not Guilty 2nd DWI
911 caller reported a major rollover, single car accident. EMS and fire arrived on scene. They had to break the window to get our client out of the car. He said he had swerved to miss a deer and had been up close to 18 hours before the crash. Police later arrived on scene, spoke to our client and he admitted to coming from a bar and drinking 2 martinis.
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Not Guilty 2nd DWI
Our client was pulled over for a traffic violation. Officer smelled alcohol, client admitted to consuming a few drinks. Officer also noted slurred speech and bloodshot eyes. Client performed the SFST’s (roadside tests). Officer said he failed all 3, eye test, walk and turn and one-leg stand. Officer placed client under arrest and asked him for a sample of breath and/or blood. Client refused. Officer did not get a blood warrant.
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Case Dismissed 2nd DWI
Our client was involved in a vehicle accident in La Grange where she was ejected from the vehicle and had to stay in the hospital. There was alcohol in the car, and she had prior DWIs. The ethanol levels in her blood came back at a .13 so she was charged with Driving While Intoxicated. This client was unaware that she was charged after she left the hospital which resulted in the charge of Bail Jumping. However she maintained that she had only an 8% functioning liver due and upon researching her medical hist
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Deferred Adjudication Aggravated Assault & Tampering with Evidence
Our client was involved in a verbal dispute that turned into an altercation where a firearm was discharged into the ground. The round ricocheted and grazed a party to the dispute. Our client was facing multiple felony convictions and a prison sentence.
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Deferred Adjudication Aggravated Assault Family Violence w/ Serious Bodily Injury
Our client was involved in a domestic altercation that resulted in one of the parties sustaining a very serious life -altering injury that required serious medical intervention. We took the case and approached our defense with heavy strong willed negotiations with the State.
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Rejected Pre-Indictment Aggravated Assault Strangulation/Impeding Airway Investigation