Hardship Licenses & Administrative Suspensions
If you were arrested for DUI in St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Largo, Pinellas Park, Seminole, or Tampa, you generally have only 10 days from arrest to dispute the administrative suspension. Act quickly to protect your driving privileges.
Suncoast Lawyer represents drivers in Pinellas County and surrounding areas, including Hillsborough, Pasco, Manatee, Sarasota, and Polk counties, in administrative license suspension and hardship-license matters.
What Is a Florida DHSMV Formal Review Hearing?
A formal review hearing is a civil administrative hearing through the Bureau of Administrative Reviews (BAR). Its purpose is to determine whether the suspension should be sustained, amended, or invalidated.
A favorable outcome can protect your ability to drive lawfully while the criminal DUI case is still pending.
Early Steps After a DUI Arrest
Administrative hearings are deadline-driven. In general, drivers should move quickly to request review and preserve temporary driving eligibility.
- Request formal or informal review using DHSMV Form 78065.
- File within the required time window, generally within 10 days of arrest or notice.
- Include the citation copy and filing fee required by DHSMV.
- Evaluate temporary permit and hardship options immediately.
How Counsel Helps at the Administrative Stage
- Prepare and file the hearing request correctly and on time.
- Request and review reports and records relied on for suspension.
- Identify legal and factual issues for hearing.
- Subpoena officers and other witnesses when appropriate.
- Present evidence and testimony in support of invalidating suspension or obtaining hardship relief.
Common Issues Raised in Formal Reviews
Each case is fact-specific, but common hearing issues can include:
- Whether the stop was legally valid.
- Whether probable cause and lawful arrest were established.
- Whether test procedures and warnings were properly given.
- Missing, conflicting, or illegible documentation.
- Whether key witnesses fail to appear after subpoena.
Why This Matters
An administrative suspension can affect work, family obligations, and your ability to manage day-to-day life. Prompt action may improve your chances of protecting your license or securing lawful driving through hardship relief.
If you or a loved one is facing a DUI-related suspension, contact Suncoast Lawyer for a free consultation.