If you were arrested for DWI in Midland, Texas law gives you only 15 days after receiving notice of suspension to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing. Missing that deadline can result in an automatic driver’s license suspension before your criminal case is resolved. At Navarrete & Schwartz, PC, we represent clients in ALR hearings and related DWI cases, working to protect their driving privileges and legal rights. We request your hearing, challenge the evidence supporting the suspension, and prepare a defense that addresses both the administrative and criminal proceedings.
Why Choose Navarrete & Schwartz, PC for Your ALR Hearing?
The ALR process moves quickly, and early legal representation can make a difference. When you hire our firm, you benefit from:
- More than 40 years of combined criminal defense experience in West Texas
- Prompt action to request your ALR hearing before the deadline expires
- Representation in both your ALR hearing and your DWI case for a coordinated defense strategy
- Careful review of the traffic stop, arrest, and testing procedures
- Clear communication so you understand your options throughout the process
Our goal is to help you preserve your driving privileges while building the strongest defense possible.
What Is an ALR Hearing?
An Administrative License Revocation hearing is a civil proceeding conducted by the Texas Department of Public Safety. It is separate from your criminal DWI case and determines whether your driver’s license should be suspended after your arrest.
An ALR hearing generally follows an allegation that you either refused a breath or blood test or submitted a specimen showing an alcohol concentration above the legal limit.
Because this proceeding is separate from the criminal case, your license can be suspended even if your DWI charge has not yet been resolved.
How Do You Avoid Losing Your License After a DWI Arrest?
The first and most important step is requesting an ALR hearing within 15 days after receiving notice of suspension. Requesting the hearing postpones the suspension until an administrative law judge issues a decision.
After requesting the hearing, we work to protect your license by examining issues such as:
- Whether the officer had reasonable suspicion for the traffic stop
- Whether probable cause existed for the arrest
- Whether proper procedures were followed when requesting a breath or blood specimen
- Whether testing procedures and other evidence support the proposed suspension
- Whether witness testimony raises questions about the state’s case
Every case is different, and identifying legal or procedural issues early may improve your chances of avoiding a suspension.
What Must the State Prove at an ALR Hearing?
The Texas Department of Public Safety has the burden of proving that a driver’s license suspension is legally justified.
Depending on the circumstances, the state generally must establish that:
- The traffic stop was lawful
- The officer had probable cause to make the arrest
- You were properly asked to provide a breath or blood specimen
- You refused testing or the test results supported the proposed suspension
We carefully review each of these issues to determine whether the evidence can be challenged. If the state does not meet its burden of proof, the administrative law judge may decline to suspend your license.
How Can an ALR Hearing Help Your DWI Defense?
An ALR hearing serves another important purpose beyond protecting your driver’s license.
The hearing may allow us to question the arresting officer under oath before the criminal case proceeds. That testimony can provide valuable information about the investigation and may become useful as we prepare your DWI defense.
Because many of the same facts are involved in both proceedings, preparing for the ALR hearing often strengthens your overall defense strategy.
Can You Get an Occupational Driver’s License?
If your driver’s license is suspended, you may qualify for an occupational driver’s license that allows limited driving for work, school, medical appointments, and certain household responsibilities.
Whether you qualify depends on your circumstances and driving history. If an occupational license is available, we can help you pursue that option while your criminal case continues.
Contact a Midland ALR Hearing Attorney Today
Losing your driver’s license can affect your job, family responsibilities, and everyday routine. Taking action quickly gives you the opportunity to challenge the proposed suspension and begin building your defense.
If you were arrested for DWI in Midland or the surrounding area, contact Navarrete & Schwartz, PC today. We will explain your options, request your ALR hearing before the deadline when appropriate, and represent you throughout both the administrative and criminal proceedings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I continue driving while waiting for my ALR hearing?
In many cases, timely requesting an ALR hearing allows you to continue driving until the hearing is held and a decision is issued.
Do I have to appear in person for my ALR hearing?
Many ALR hearings are conducted by telephone or videoconference, although the format may vary. We will explain what to expect in your case and appear on your behalf when appropriate.
Does winning my ALR hearing dismiss my DWI charge?
No. The ALR hearing and the criminal DWI case are separate proceedings with different legal standards. However, information obtained during the hearing may benefit your criminal defense.
Should I contact an attorney before requesting an ALR hearing?
Yes. Because the deadline is short and the hearing can affect both your driving privileges and your criminal case, speaking with an attorney as soon as possible allows you to protect your rights and begin preparing your defense.