Greenlee County License Hearing Guide

Greenlee County DUI: Don't Miss the 15-Day Deadline to Save Your License!

If you've been arrested for DUI in Greenlee County, Arizona, you face both criminal charges and administrative penalties. One of the most immediate concerns is the potential suspension of your driver's license. You have only 15 CALENDAR DAYS from the date of your arrest to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing with the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) Motor Vehicle Division (MVD). This is a hard deadline. Missing it means automatic suspension of your license, regardless of the outcome of your criminal case. Many people mistakenly believe they have longer or confuse this with other deadlines, like the impound hearing. Don't delay!

How to Request Your ALR Hearing in Arizona

Requesting your ALR hearing is crucial to potentially avoid a license suspension. You have three options:

• Online (Fastest): Visit the ADOT MVD website to request an Executive Hearing: https://azdot.gov/mvd/executive-hearing/requesting-hearing This is generally the fastest and most efficient method.

• By Mail: Send a written request to:

Executive Hearing Office MD 525M P.O. Box 2100 Phoenix, AZ 85001

Your request must include your full name, date of birth, driver's license number, mailing address, the date of your DUI arrest, and a clear statement that you are requesting an ALR hearing.

• By Phone: Call the Executive Hearing Office at (602) 712-8400. Their hours are typically Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Be prepared to provide the same information required for a written request.

Remember, the 15-day deadline is unforgiving. Request your hearing as soon as possible after your arrest.

After You Request Your ALR Hearing

Once you've requested your hearing, here's what to expect:

1. Request Filed: The MVD receives and processes your request.
2. Hearing Scheduled: You will receive a notice of the hearing date, time, and location (which may be online). This typically takes 2-4 weeks.
3. The Hearing: The hearing takes place.
4. Decision: The ALR judge will issue a decision, usually within a few days of the hearing. You will be notified of the outcome by mail.

What to Expect at the ALR Hearing

The ALR hearing is an administrative proceeding, separate from your criminal case. It focuses on whether the officer had probable cause to arrest you for DUI and whether proper procedures were followed during the arrest.

• Who's Present: You (or your attorney), an ALR judge (hearing officer), and potentially the arresting officer (though they are not always present).
• What's Discussed: The hearing officer will review the police report and any other evidence related to your arrest. They will consider whether the officer had reasonable suspicion to stop you, probable cause to believe you were driving under the influence, and whether you were properly advised of your rights regarding chemical testing.
• How Long It Takes: ALR hearings are typically brief, lasting anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.
• Possible Outcomes: The hearing officer can either uphold the license suspension or set it aside. If they find that the officer lacked probable cause or that proper procedures were not followed, your license will not be suspended.

Should You Hire an Attorney for Your ALR Hearing?

While you are not required to have an attorney represent you at an ALR hearing, it can be beneficial.

• Pros: An attorney familiar with DUI law can help you understand your rights, gather evidence, and present a strong defense at the hearing. They can also cross-examine the arresting officer and challenge the evidence against you. Given the potential impact on your employment at Freeport-McMoRan, especially the strict "Self-Reporting" policies, having legal counsel navigate this process is highly recommended.
• Cons: Hiring an attorney involves legal fees. However, consider this an investment in protecting your driving privileges and, potentially, your livelihood. A local attorney familiar with the Greenlee/Graham court systems is preferable to avoid excessive travel fees.

If You Lose Your ALR Hearing

If the ALR judge upholds the suspension, the length of the suspension depends on the circumstances of your DUI:

• First DUI (BAC over .08): 90-day suspension
• Extreme DUI (BAC of .15 or higher): 30-day suspension
• Refusal to Submit to Chemical Test: One-year suspension

Occupational License: Even with a suspended license, you may be eligible for a restricted "Occupational License." This allows you to drive to and from work, school, and medical appointments. To apply, contact the ADOT MVD after a portion of your suspension has been served. There is a fee associated with obtaining an occupational license.

Safford DPS Office Location

While the ALR hearing is handled through the Executive Hearing Office, you may need to visit a local DPS office for other license-related matters, such as applying for an occupational license after a suspension. The closest DPS office to Greenlee County is located in Safford:

Safford MVD Office 555 E Discovery Park Blvd Safford, AZ 85546 Phone: (928) 428-0770 Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Verify hours before visiting)