Defending Your License After A DUI In Southeast South Dakota
Losing your driver’s license after a DUI can be incredibly disruptive and embarrassing. As a DUI driver’s license suspension lawyer, I understand the significant impact this can have on your life. That’s why I take these cases seriously at my firm, Kolbeck Law Office, located here in Sioux Falls. You deserve compassionate and competent legal representation to guide you through this challenging time.
When Does License Suspension Happen?
In South Dakota, your driver’s license can be suspended in two main scenarios after a DUI:
- Refusing chemical tests under implied consent laws
- After a DUI conviction
Imagine not being able to drive your sick child to the doctor or struggling to keep your job due to transportation issues. These are real consequences that I work hard to help my clients avoid.
It’s essential to understand that license suspension and revocation are not the same. A suspension is a temporary removal of driving privileges for a specific period, while a revocation is a more severe penalty that cancels your driver’s license indefinitely. In South Dakota, the Department of Public Safety can revoke your license for certain offenses, such as multiple DUI convictions or driving under suspension.
Implied Consent And Refusing DUI Chemical Tests In Sioux Falls
Like all states, South Dakota has “implied consent” laws. These laws automatically require you to consent to chemical testing if a law enforcement officer suspects you of driving under the influence.
You have the right to refuse testing, but doing so has serious consequences, including an automatic driver’s license suspension. The length of this suspension depends on factors such as your refusal history and any prior DUI convictions.
Strategies To Protect Your Driving Privileges
There are ways to fight for your driving privileges and minimize the impact of a DUI license suspension. I work closely with my clients to explore all license reinstatement options available to them.
Here are a few potential strategies:
- Seeking a restricted driver’s license that allows limited driving for work, school or other essential purposes
- Requesting an ignition interlock device installation, enabling you to drive with a breathalyzer installed in your car
- Negotiating with the prosecution for reduced charges or alternative sentencing options
It’s also essential to address any underlying issues contributing to the DUI arrest, like alcohol misuse. Completing alcohol education courses and demonstrating compliance with court orders can be vital in regaining your license.
Protecting Commercial Drivers’ Livelihoods
If you hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and are facing a DUI charge, the stakes are even higher. Your livelihood depends on your ability to drive. Because your job is vital, protecting your license is a top priority. I am dedicated to protecting the rights and careers of commercial drivers facing DUI charges.
Don’t Face License Suspension Alone – Contact Me Today
As a lawyer with a deep understanding of South Dakota’s DUI laws, I’m here to provide you with skilled, understanding guidance. If you are facing license suspension or revocation, call me at 605-937-8376 or fill out this online contact form to discuss your case and legal options.