For many people, the most serious consequence of a D.W.I. arrest or conviction is the loss of their drivers license. Suspension for refusal or failure of a breath/blood test is called an "ALR suspension." Upon arrest, a person is given two documents: a DIC 24, which sets out the consequences of a refusal or failure, and a DIC 25, which serves as a temporary driving permit, in the event the officer seizes the drivers license upon arrest. The DIC 25 service marks the beginning of the ALR process. You have 15 days from service of this yellow sheet of paper to request an ALR hearing.

You may request a hearing by phone, mail, or fax. It is urgent that anyone arrested for DWI/DUI contact an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. I have had countless occasions where the client waited until a few days before the hearing to contact me, or even went in by himself/herself and talked personally to the County or District Attorney. Do not do this!

Even though the ALR Hearing is conducted by an examiner employed by the Texas Department of Public Safety, I have had success in getting the case tossed at the ALR level. In any event, it gives me a chance to contest the validity of the stop, find out what the officer is going to say, and find out any strengths or weaknesses of the the case. By the time I am through, I know more about the case than the DA will know. And that helps you!