Michigan Criminal Lawyers Blog
As seasoned Michigan driver’s license reinstatement attorneys, we realize that most people associate a suspended driver’s license with driving while under the influence of alcohol or having received too many traffic tickets. The fact is, a conviction for a drug offense can result in suspension of your license as well.
Driving under the influence or DUI is a charge that applies not only to individuals who are found to have an illegal amount (greater than 0.08%) of alcohol or intoxicating liquor in their systems, but those who have other potentially intoxicating substances in their systems as well. This may include narcotic or illegal drugs such as cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, marijuana, and other illicit substances as well as prescription medications such as oxycodone, Vicodin, or even Xanax or other benzodiazepines. Should it be determined that your ability to operate a vehicle safely was affected by drugs in your system, you may be charged with DUI – and have your driver’s license suspended.
Driver’s license suspension applies not only to operating a vehicle with drugs in your system, it also applies in cases where an individual is convicted of possessing, manufacturing, or distributing drugs. In this situation, you do not have to be driving at all to have your license suspended. The fact that you were in possession of an illegal substance is enough to result in license suspension.
Just as is the case with DUI, a first time drug conviction will result in a six month suspension of your driver’s license. For the first 30 days, you will not be able to drive for any reason; whether or not you drive for the remaining five months will depend on whether you get a restricted license. A second drug conviction will result in a one year driver’s license suspension, with no driving for the first 60 days. It is also important to note that you will not simply be “given” restricted driving rights after the initial suspension period. It costs $125 to have your license reinstated, even to drive on a restricted basis. When your license is restricted, you will be permitted to drive only under certain circumstances or at specific times of the day. A restricted license does not give you free reign to go about your daily life and drive whenever or wherever you like.
Ultimately, if your driver’s license has been suspended for a drug conviction or for any other reason, it is a good idea to speak with an experienced Michigan driver’s license restoration lawyer. Losing your privilege to drive will impact your life more than you can imagine.