DeKalb County Driver’s License Reinstatement Attorney

For over two decades, Wirth Law has focused exclusively on Illinois driver’s license reinstatement hearings and DUI defense. Our office has helped thousands of clients regain their driving privileges through the Illinois Secretary of State hearing process. Our office regularly assists clients from across DeKalb County who are seeking reinstatement, a probationary permit, or a restricted driving permit.

Our practice serves individuals throughout DeKalb County, including residents of DeKalb, Sycamore, Genoa, Sandwich, Cortland, Maple Park, Hinckley, Kingston, Waterman, and other surrounding areas. Whether working professionals, NIU students, or long-time residents are affected by a loss of driving privileges, our office offers clear legal guidance every step of the way.

Transit Access from DeKalb County to the Chicago Hearing Office

The Illinois Secretary of State holds formal hearings in four locations in Illinois: Chicago, Springfield, Joliet, and Mount Vernon. Our main office is located within walking distance of the Chicago hearing location, making it convenient to meet in our office to complete paperwork prior to attending a hearing. We also maintain a satellite office in Naperville for clients in the western suburbs.

Residents of DeKalb County can access the hearing location by traveling east to the Elburn or Geneva Metra stations, both of which connect to the Union Pacific West Line. The train arrives at Ogilvie Transportation Center in downtown Chicago, a short distance from our office. Our office is conveniently located next to the South Loop Self Park Garage, on 318 S. Federal Street in Chicago.

Attorney Jennifer Wirth: Proven Results and Industry Recognition

Managing attorney Jennifer Wirth has earned recognition as one of Illinois’ top-ranking driver’s license reinstatement attorneys. With decades of experience and a track record of successful outcomes, she continues to deliver high-quality representation to clients throughout DeKalb County and across the state.

Attorney Wirth holds perfect 10.0 ratings on Avvo and Justia, both of which are independent attorney rating platforms. In 2024, she was named among the Best DUI Lawyers in Chicago by Expertise.com. She has also been recognized as one of the Top 100 Trial Lawyers for DUI Defense in Illinois. Her commitment to client service is reflected in repeated honors from Martindale-Hubbell and Avvo, including the Client Champion Award and Client’s Choice distinction.

Her leadership ensures that each case is handled with skill, preparation, and personalized attention. The goal is not only to regain driving privileges but to guide clients through the process with confidence and clarity.

Revocations and Suspensions Under Illinois Law

One of the most common reasons for license revocation in DeKalb County is a DUI conviction. Under Illinois law, a DUI conviction results in a mandatory revocation of driving privileges, whether the offense occurred in Illinois or in another state while holding an Illinois license. Once the court notifies the Secretary of State, the revocation process begins.

Other offenses that result in mandatory revocation include reckless homicide, felony offenses involving a vehicle, and aggravated fleeing from law enforcement. These offenses fall under Section 6-205 of the Illinois Vehicle Code.

The Secretary of State may also suspend or revoke a license at its discretion under Section 6-206. Discretionary actions may result from repeated moving violations, possession of a fake identification card, or a second conviction for illegal transportation of alcohol within a twelve-month period.

Types of Relief Available After a Revocation

The Illinois Secretary of State may grant several types of driving relief, depending on the facts of the case and the outcome of the hearing.

Full reinstatement restores driving privileges with no restrictions. This form of relief allows the person to drive for any lawful purpose without limitations on time, mileage, or destination. Reinstatement also eliminates the need for an interlock device.

Out-of-state residents may request clearance of an Illinois hold in order to apply for a license in their current state of residence. This is a common issue for individuals who moved away from Illinois after a DUI revocation, or out-of-state residents that received an Illinois DUI. If clearance is granted, reinstatement fees must be paid, and the individual may be asked to submit additional paperwork such as an SR-22 waiver.

Restricted driving permits may be issued for a transportation hardship relating to work, school, court obligations, medical care, or other specific reasons. These permits are available when the petitioner demonstrates undue hardship and a lack of reasonable transportation alternatives. In other cases, permits may be issued on a probationary basis, allowing driving for any lawful purpose within a 200-mile radius for up to twelve hours per day, with a six-day per week limitation.

For individuals with two or three DUI convictions, the Secretary of State requires a five-year period of monitored driving before full reinstatement. During this time, a person must drive on a BAIID Multiple Offender (BMO) permit and remain compliant with all conditions. These permits are renewed every two years through the hearing process.

Formal and Informal Hearings Before the Secretary of State

The hearing process is the most important step in regaining driving privileges. The Illinois Secretary of State holds two types of hearings: formal and informal.

Formal hearings are required for more serious offenses such as multiple DUI revocations or reckless homicide. These proceedings are similar to a trial. The petitioner provides sworn testimony and submits documentation for review. A hearing officer and an attorney from the Secretary of State’s office are present during the proceeding. A revoked driver may bring a driver’s license attorney to represent them during the hearing. At the conclusion, a written decision is issued within ninety days of the hearing date.

Informal hearings are used for less serious offenses, such as a single DUI, moving violations, or false identification. These hearings take place on a walk-in basis at designated Secretary of State driver services facilities. A hearing officer interviews the petitioner, records responses, and prepares a summary for internal review. Even though informal, these hearings require preparation and the proper submission of all required documents.

Comprehensive Preparation for Every Client

Our firm takes a detailed and personalized approach to every case. Preparation begins with a review of the driving abstract, arrest records, and any previous hearing decisions. We assess eligibility for full reinstatement, a probationary permit, or out-of-state clearance, and then plan the necessary steps.

Each client attends meetings to review likely hearing questions and refine their testimony. Common topics include the circumstances of each arrest, positive lifestyle changes since the offense(s), and compliance with all treatment and evaluation requirements. Clients are also prepared to discuss risk classification, as well as abstinence or responsible use, depending on their risk classification and current circumstances.

By the time of the hearing, it is our goal that every client feels prepared and confident when answering questions about their history. The goal is to present a clear, complete case to the Secretary of State.

Legal Representation Across Illinois and Beyond

Wirth Law represents drivers throughout the state, including DeKalb County and neighboring regions such as Kane, LaSalle, and Ogle counties. Our office also assists out-of-state residents who need to clear an Illinois hold in order to apply for a driver’s license in their home state.

For those living out of state or in rural parts of Illinois, our office makes the process efficient by coordinating remote preparation sessions and handling scheduling on behalf of the client. Our office files for the hearing, obtains all evidence from the State, and regularly reviews with each client to prepare them for their hearing. We can recommend evaluation and treatment providers who offer virtual services.

Flat Fees, Payment Plans, and Free Consultations

Wirth Law provides flat-rate representation with no hidden costs. For clients who qualify, we also offer payment plans through Affirm. Every prospective client is offered a free consultation to review the driving record, explain the hearing process, and discuss available legal options.

Our success rate for first-time hearings exceeds 95 percent on an annual basis. We believe in honest assessments, diligent preparation, and clear communication.

To schedule a free consultation, contact Wirth Law at (312) 761-8290 or email jennifer@wirthlaw.org. Our downtown Chicago office is located steps from the Secretary of State hearing facility and is easily accessible for clients traveling from DeKalb County.