Williamson County License Hearing Guide

Protect Your Driving Privileges After a DUI Arrest in Williamson County: Understanding ALR Hearings

If you've been arrested for DUI in Williamson County, Tennessee, your driving privileges are in immediate jeopardy. Tennessee's Implied Consent Law means that by driving on Tennessee roads, you've agreed to submit to chemical testing (blood, breath, or urine) if suspected of DUI. Refusal to submit to testing, or a test result above the legal limit, triggers an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) process, separate from the criminal DUI case.

CRITICAL: You have only 15 CALENDAR DAYS from the date of your arrest to request an ALR hearing to challenge the suspension of your driver's license. This is not 10 days, as some people mistakenly believe. Missing this deadline results in an automatic license suspension.

How to Request Your ALR Hearing in Williamson County

Requesting an ALR hearing is crucial to protecting your driving privileges. You have several options:

• Online: - This is generally the fastest and most efficient method.
• By Mail: Send your request in writing to . Be sure to include your full name, date of birth, driver's license number, the date of your arrest, and a clear statement that you are requesting an ALR hearing. Certified mail with return receipt requested is highly recommended to prove timely submission.
• By Phone: Contact during business hours to request a hearing. Be prepared to provide the same information as required for a written request.

Remember, regardless of the method you choose, your request MUST be received within 15 calendar days of your arrest.

After You Request Your ALR Hearing

Once you've filed your request, here's what you can expect:

1. Request Filed: Your request is received and processed by the appropriate authority.
2. Hearing Scheduled: A hearing date will be scheduled, typically within 2-4 weeks of your request. You will receive a notice of the hearing date, time, and location.
3. Hearing: The ALR hearing will take place.
4. Decision: The ALR judge will make a decision based on the evidence presented.

What to Expect at the ALR Hearing

The ALR hearing is an administrative proceeding, separate from your criminal DUI case. Here's what you can expect:

• Who's Present: You (the driver), your attorney (optional), an ALR judge, and potentially the arresting officer.
• What's Discussed: The hearing focuses on whether there was probable cause for the traffic stop, whether you were properly informed of your Implied Consent rights, and whether the chemical test results were valid. The arresting officer may appear to testify about the circumstances of your arrest.
• How Long It Takes: ALR hearings are typically brief, lasting from 30 minutes to an hour.
• Possible Outcomes: The ALR judge can either uphold the license suspension or overturn it. If the judge finds that the state did not meet its burden of proof, your license will be reinstated.

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 is strongly recommended, especially in Williamson County. Here's why:

Pros:

• Legal Expertise: An experienced DUI attorney understands the complex legal issues involved in ALR hearings and can effectively argue your case.
• Evidence Presentation: An attorney can gather and present evidence to support your case, such as challenging the accuracy of the chemical test results or questioning the officer's probable cause for the stop.
• Negotiation: An attorney may be able to negotiate with the state to avoid a license suspension.
• Objectivity: An attorney can provide an objective assessment of your case and advise you on the best course of action.

Cons:

• Cost: Hiring an attorney can be expensive.

Given the high stakes involved, especially in Williamson County where a DUI arrest can significantly impact your career and reputation, the benefits of having legal representation at your ALR hearing often outweigh the costs. The affluent nature of Williamson County means the court system is accustomed to dealing with defendants who have retained counsel, and navigating the process alone can be daunting.

If You Lose Your ALR Hearing

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

• First Offense (BAC of .08 or higher or refusal): 1-year suspension
• Second Offense (within 10 years): 2-year suspension
• Third Offense (within 10 years): 10-year suspension
• Fourth or Subsequent Offense (within 10 years): Lifetime suspension

Occupational License:

Even if your license is suspended, you may be eligible for a restricted driving permit, often called an "occupational license." This allows you to drive to and from work, school, and other essential locations. To apply for an occupational license, you must petition the court in the county where you reside. The requirements for obtaining an occupational license vary, but typically include proof of employment or school enrollment, proof of insurance, and a clean driving record (other than the DUI). The cost of obtaining an occupational license also varies by county.

Williamson County TN DPS Office Location

For questions about license reinstatement or other driver's license matters, you can contact the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security (DPS) office located at: