Winston Salem Driver’s License Restoration Lawyer

Winston Salem Driver’s License Restoration Attorney

A driver’s license suspension is more than an inconvenience; it’s a life-changing disruption. If you’re going through the complicated process of license restoration, then you need a Winston-Salem driver’s license restoration lawyer by your side. At LAWSMITH, The Law Offices of J. Scott Smith, PLLC, we can advocate for your rights and restore your driving privileges.

How Driver’s License Suspension Can Affect You in Winston-Salem

According to a 2020 study at Duke University, approximately 19% of licensed drivers in Forsyth County have had their licenses suspended at some point in time. If your driver’s license is suspended, it doesn’t only mean the inability to commute to work or school. It can create significant challenges when meeting personal obligations, like doctor appointments, childcare duties, or attending important social events.

In Winston-Salem, public transportation options are limited, and a suspended license can place even more strain on residents who rely on their cars for daily tasks.

Common Reasons for License Suspensions in Winston-Salem

There are many different reasons why a driver’s license might be suspended in North Carolina, and Winston-Salem residents are no exception. These include:

• DWI arrests. One of the most common reasons for a suspended license is a DWI conviction. In 2023, over 27,000 people were convicted of DWI in North Carolina. However, even if you were only arrested on suspicion, your license is automatically revoked for 30 days.
• Unpaid traffic fines. Failing to pay traffic tickets or appearing in court for violations can lead to the suspension of your driver’s license. This issue affects many drivers who, due to financial hardship or other reasons, neglect to settle fines on time.
• Accumulation of points. North Carolina uses a point system to track traffic violations. If you accumulate too many points on your driving record, your license could be suspended.
• Failure to maintain insurance. North Carolina law requires all drivers to maintain a minimum level of auto insurance coverage. If your policy lapses or you fail to provide proof of insurance, your driver’s license might be suspended.
• Child support arrears. With the NCDHHS reporting over 400,000 cases of custodial parents seeking help with collecting child support arrears, failure to pay child support can also lead to a suspension of your driving privileges.

Understanding the common causes behind license suspensions is the first step toward addressing the issue and restoring your driving privileges. At LAWSMITH, The Law Offices of J. Scott Smith, PLLC, we can navigate the complexities of the process and challenge any suspension of your license.

Consequences of Not Addressing Your License Suspension

Ignoring or delaying the resolution of your license suspension in Winston-Salem can have serious ramifications, so understanding these potential consequences is important for anyone facing a suspension. These include:

• Additional fines and/or criminal charges
• Extended suspension periods
• Jail time in extreme cases

The risk of further complications makes it imperative to take action as soon as possible. Our legal team can help you meet all the necessary requirements to avoid worsening your situation.

Working With a Winston-Salem Driver’s License Restoration Lawyer

Navigating the license restoration process can be overwhelming. An experienced license restoration attorney from LAWSMITH, The Law Offices of J. Scott Smith, PLLC, can make sure you meet all the criteria and avoid any unnecessary delays. We can help you by:

• Determining eligibility. This involves reviewing your case to figure out if you’re eligible to restore your license.
• Preparing documents. We can gather the necessary documents and evidence for your petition.
• Handling hearings. Our firm can represent you during any required hearings to advocate on your behalf.
• Meeting requirements. We can make sure you comply with all the legal obligations that must be met before your restoration is approved, like paying fines or installing an IID.

Having a local legal professional by your side can streamline the process, which can give you a favorable chance of regaining your driving privileges as quickly as possible. We are intimately familiar with both courts that serve the residents of Winston-Salem — the Forsyth County District Court and the North Carolina Court of Appeals.

Combining our depth of local knowledge and years of experience, the team at LAWSMITH, The Law Offices of J. Scott Smith, PLLC, is uniquely positioned to fight for the residents of Winston-Salem and restore their driving privileges.

FAQs

Can I Drive While My License Is Suspended in Winston-Salem?

Driving while your license is suspended in Winston-Salem is illegal. If you’re caught driving with a suspended license, you could face additional criminal charges, fines, and an extended suspension. It’s important to address your suspension with our team. We can work to restore your license so you don’t risk any additional consequences.

What Happens If I Miss a Hearing Date for My License Restoration?

Missing a hearing date for your license restoration can cause further delays in the restoration process. If you miss a hearing date, it’s important to immediately contact our legal team. We can work to resolve the issue and reschedule your hearing.

How Long Does the License Restoration Process Take in Winston-Salem?

The timeline for license restoration in Winston-Salem varies, depending on the reason for your suspension and whether you need to comply with additional requirements, like alcohol education classes or installing an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in your vehicle. Generally, the process can take several months, so it’s important to begin as soon as possible.

What If I Can’t Afford the Fees for License Restoration in Winston-Salem?

If you can’t afford the fees associated with restoring your license, you could request a payment plan or seek help through local programs, like D.R.I.V.E., which are designed to help low-income individuals. An attorney from our law firm can explain your options for handling these fees.

Contact a Winston-Salem Driver’s License Restoration Lawyer

If your license has been suspended, the experienced team at LAWSMITH, The Law Offices of J. Scott Smith, PLLC, can provide you with detailed guidance and compelling advocacy. We understand the legal complexities of license restoration in Winston-Salem and can represent you throughout the process.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation.