Ousama M. Rasheed Criminal Law Blog on Lawyers.com

Will I Lose My License if Convicted of DUI?

Monday, February 13, 2012 by Ousama M. Rasheed

In New Mexico, DUI conviction results in license suspension. The suspension period varies depending on whether DWI was a first, second, or third offense. However, once the administrative case and criminal case revocation periods are over, drivers convicted of first, second, and third offenses are able to restore their licenses. Drivers convicted of fourth and subsequent DWI offenses can have their licenses revoked for life.

Limited licenses

Drivers convicted of a first DWI offense, may apply for a limited license and can receive it after 30 days of revocation. Albuquerque DUI attorneys help drivers provide evidence of financial responsibility and employment or education needs. The limited licenses allow driving during scheduled hours to work, school, and court-ordered treatment. Under New Mexico statutes, all drivers convicted of DWI must use an ignition interlock device (IID), including those convicted of first offenses.

The IID is a small hand held device that the driver blows into and it measures and analyzes the driver's blood alcohol content (BAC). It disables the ignition if there is evidence of driving over a set BAC limit. Also, the driver must re-test using the device periodically while driving. Limits that exceed the allowed BAC turn off the engine.

License restoration

An Albuquerque DUI lawyer can help clients petition for license restoration. The court assigns the client a case number for restoration. A judge schedules a hearing to review evidence that the client addressed substance abuse issues and it not a public risk. For third DWI offenses, drivers generally must drive with an ignition interlock device for three years and meet other qualifications before courts grant license restoration.

Contact an experienced DUI lawyer

For more information, legal advice, or representation, contact an Albuquerque DUI lawyer with extensive experience. Rasheed & Associates, P.A. can provide aggressive defense in DWI cases, both the administrative hearing for license suspension and the criminal court case. The firm also helps with limited licenses and license restoration. Call 505-246-8474 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation.

Posted at 18:36 PM

Topic: Criminal Law