Facing a DUI conviction in Maine can be overwhelming, but it’s essential to focus on the steps needed to reinstating your driver’s license following an OUI conviction. Maine’s strict OUI laws can make navigating the reinstatement process challenging, but understanding your options can significantly ease the journey.
Whether it’s through installing an ignition interlock device or completing the required DEEP course, there are specific pathways to get back on the road legally. Consulting with an experienced OUI defense attorney is crucial, as they can guide you through the legal intricacies and ensure you meet all necessary requirements for reinstatement.
In this article, we’ll explore the available options and provide a clear roadmap to help you restore your driving privileges.
Call 207-571-8146 or contact us online to schedule a consult with one of our highly skilled OUI & criminal defense attorneys today.
Ignition Interlock Device (IID)
Option #1 is the most popular choice: installation of an ignition interlock device (IID). In order to get an IID, you have to satisfythe following requirements:
- You must first serve 30 days of suspension time;
- You must have completed the DEEP course;
- You must have paid all reinstatement fees;
- You must have completed your ignition interlock device application and submit it to the Bureau of motor vehicles prior to scheduling your IID installation appointment.
If you complete all of the foregoing requirements, you should be eligible for reinstatement. The difficulty is, many people do not complete DEEP until they’ve actually been convicted of the crime of OUI. It takes time to complete DEEP and as a result, those folks who do not complete it early on will likely have to wait longer than 30 days before completion of deep and being eligible to have their IID installed. Don’t be that person.
If you opt for the IID option, you will need to contract the IID directly through the manufacturer. The BMV does not assist you with this. Your attorney can provide you with this information if he or she is someone that concentrates in DUI defense. Keep in mind that you must pay for the installation, maintenance, rental, and removal of the device. Getting an IID is not cheap. But it sure as heck beats the alternative of walking or being unable to care for your family because you can’t get to work or the grocery store.
Serve 2/3 of OUI Suspension Time
Option #2 is serve two thirds of your suspension time; pay all of your reinstatement fees; complete the DEEP course. Let’s use an example: you are just convicted of a first offense OUI in Portland Maine. The court suspended your driver’s license for a period of 150 days. You complete DEEP in a timely fashion; you pay your $50 reinstatement fee; and you serve 100 days of the suspension time. As long as you have completed the foregoing requirements, the Bureau of motor vehicles will reinstate your license on a work restricted basis for the last 50 days of the 150 day suspension period.
Serve Entire OUI Suspension Time
Option #3: Serve the entirety of your suspension time; pay all your reinstatement fees; complete the deep course. For a very small segment of the population, this may be the best alternative. However, for most of my clients, this would be an unacceptable option and one they would not choose to exercise.
One of the most important things to remember is that you must always complete DEEP prior to reinstatement of your license.
Talk with your attorney and decide together which option is best for you. If you have any questions or need the assistence of a skilled OUI attorney, call The Maine Criminal Defense Group at 207-571-8146 or contact us directly online for help today in protecting your rights and securing your freedom.
Call 207-571-8146 or contact us online to schedule a consult with one of our highly skilled OUI & criminal defense attorneys today.
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