The requirements for obtaining an occupational or restricted license in Dallas, Texas include:
- Filling out the appropriate form provided by Dallas County
- Submitting a request to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS)
- Providing all requested paperwork
- Paying all necessary fees
- Proving that you need the license to fulfill critical obligations
Can a DWI Lawyer Help Me Get an Occupational License?
A lawyer from our firm can help you with all aspects of your driving while intoxicated (DWI) case, including filing for an occupational license. They can also:
- Clarify your case: Your attorney will make sure you understand what is happening with your case at all times by explaining legal concepts and updating you on a regular basis.
- Fill out paperwork: This includes the forms necessary to request an occupational license, as well as things like trial exhibits.
- Seek evidence: Police reports, eyewitness testimony, security footage, and more can play a role in building your defense.
- Seek a dismissal or reduction: If the charges are dropped, the case is over. If the charges are reduced, you will face much lighter punishments if convicted.
- Advocate for you in court: Your lawyer will speak on your behalf in the courtroom, delivering oral arguments and questioning witnesses.
- Support you: Whenever you have a question or need to report a change in your case, you can call our team. We are here to make the legal process as easy for you as possible.
We offer these services and more when you hire us for your case.
You Can Learn More for Free
If you are still unsure about hiring a lawyer, our law firm offers a complimentary consultation, during which you can ask any questions about the process. We can also assess your case at no cost or obligation to you, meaning there is no risk to calling for more information.
What are Other Penalties Associated with DWI?
If you lost your license due to a DWI arrest, then you also face the prospect of:
- Paying hefty fines and court fees: The maximum DWI fine you may have to pay ranges from $2,000 to $10,000. In addition, you will have to pay court fees, occupational license application fees, and so on.
- Spending time behind bars: A DWI conviction could land you in jail for 3 days or in prison for up to 10 years.
- Losing your rights: Certain types of convictions could permanently affect your right to seek federal employment, vote, own a firearm, and more.
- Having trouble at work: You could lose your license for 1 to 2 years. This will make getting to work much more difficult.
Many of these penalties can have lasting consequences on several aspects of your life. Whether or not you receive the maximum possible penalties, a DWI conviction can upend your:
- Career: Jail time may convince your boss to let you go, and a criminal record may dissuade other companies from hiring you.
- Finances: Between fines and court fees, you could lose thousands.
- Social life: Other people might not want to associate with someone with a criminal record.
- Mental health: Going to jail, as well as the knowledge that you can never expunge your criminal record, can do serious psychological damage.
What Determines the Severity of Your Penalties?
Why does the severity of DWI penalties vary so widely? The exact nature of the penalties you face depends on:
- Prior convictions: Your sentence may be lighter if this is your first conviction.
- The severity of the charge: A misdemeanor is less severe than a felony.
- If there are other charges: If you have been charged with other alcohol-related offenses in addition to the DWI, you could face stricter penalties.
Why are Occupational Licenses Issued?
You could lose your regular driver’s license for any number of reasons, including:
- DWI conviction
- Refusing to take a blood or breathalyzer test at the time of arrest
- An accumulation of points on your license
Without a license, it will be much more difficult for you to get to work. This is especially critical if you are your family’s primary or sole breadwinner. Under such urgent circumstances, you have the right to request an occupational license. Having this type of license allows you to drive under limited circumstances, including to get to and from work, school, and certain errands.
How Fast Can I Get My Occupational License?
There are often waiting periods associated with receiving an occupational license. Per the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), these wait times vary depending on why your license was suspended. In some cases, a judge may waive the waiting period, allowing you to get your occupational license faster.
Get Legal Help Today
Whether you want more information about the requirements for obtaining an occupational or restricted license or you are ready to hire a DWI lawyer right now, call the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg. We can inform you of your rights and options and help you decide how to approach your case. Call (214) 696-9253 for a free consultation.
