Types of Secretary of State Hearings in Chicago, IL

INFORMAL OR FORMAL HEARING

• Informal hearings are required for petitioners who have had their driver’s licenses suspended or revoked for a single loss of driving privileges stemming from a DUI conviction, or an offense related to a lesser traffic violation that does not involve a fatality.

• Informal hearings may be held at select driver’s services facilities, and petitions may be made for a Restricted Driving Permit (RDP) or full reinstatement of the petitioner’s driving privileges, depending on the type of license suspension or revocation.

• Formal hearings are required for anyone who does not qualify for an informal hearing. Formal hearings are typically for people with multiple DUI arrests and/or more serious offenses than those handled through informal hearings.

• Regardless of the type of hearing you are required to have, you have the right to an attorney. Johnson & Goldrich, P.C. will stand by your side and ensure the entire process goes as smoothly and as quickly as possible.

HEARING REPRESENTATION

Johnson & Goldrich, P.C. represents petitioners at formal and informal Secretary Of State Hearings throughout the entire state of Illinois. We provide legal representation and experience at administrative hearings in Chicago, IL, Springfield, Joliet, Mt. Vernon, and more. Additionally, we will appear at dozens of other informal hearing locations, and we also represent non-Illinois residents in applications for Out-Of-State driving relief and/or clearance.

During hearings, it will be necessary to present evidence that supports the claim you are a law-abiding citizen capable of driving responsibly and following the rules of the road. Evidence can include things like reference letters, reports of significant life changes that have influenced you, drug or alcohol evaluations, and proof of treatment(s) for addiction. Negative reports against you can be challenged by your attorney.

Informal hearings do not require an appointment and are held on a walk-in basis. However, formal hearings require a request to be made in writing through the U.S. mail. Petitioners are eligible for a subsequent hearing 90 days following their most recent hearing.

After a formal hearing, an order will be issued which reflects the hearing officer’s recommendations and the decision of the Illinois Secretary of State’s office. This order will be subject to the Administrative Review Law.

Informal hearings can be resolved with the petitioner receiving full reinstatement of their driving privileges, or being issued a Restricted Driving Permit. The hearing officer will submit all documentation to the main office in Springfield, and the final decision will be mailed to the applicant.

Contact Us for Illinois Drivers License Reinstatement in Chicago, IL and Throughout the State

If your driver’s license has been suspended or revoked and you need to attend a formal or informal hearing, we invite you to contact the legal team at Johnson & Goldrich, P.C., an experienced Illinois license reinstatement law firm located in Chicago. We will fight for your driving privileges and work to help get you back on the road as soon as possible- Call us today at (312) 795-1801 to schedule an appointment.