Kankakee County Driver’s License Reinstatement Attorney

For over twenty years, Wirth Law has focused exclusively on Illinois driver’s license reinstatement and DUI defense. Our firm provides professional legal representation to individuals seeking to restore driving privileges after a revocation or suspension. With our main office within walking distance of the Secretary of State’s formal hearing office, Wirth Law offers convenient and experienced legal support to residents of Kankakee County.

When dealing with a driver’s license revocation, it is critical to hire an experienced driver’s license reinstatement attorney. Our firm has helped thousands of revoked drivers regain their driving privileges over the years. We represent individuals at both formal and informal license reinstatement hearings. This includes Illinois residents, as well as out-of-state drivers who are unable to obtain a license due to an Illinois hold. With a success rate of over 95 percent for first-time clients who retain our office, Wirth Law provides top-notch, quality legal representation to revoked drivers in Illinois.

Driver’s License Reinstatement Services for Kankakee County

For residents of Kankakee, Bradley, Bourbonnais, Manteno, and nearby communities, a revoked or suspended license can create serious challenges for employment, education, and family responsibilities. Wirth Law assists individuals in navigating the complex process of Illinois Secretary of State hearings to regain driving privileges efficiently and with legal support every step of the way.

The firm handles a wide range of driver’s license matters, including:

• Full license reinstatement
• Hardship permits
• Probationary permits
• Out-of-state clearance
• BAIID-related violations
• Formal and informal hearing representation

Recognized Experience in DUI and License Reinstatement Law

Jennifer Wirth, the firm’s managing attorney, has earned numerous awards for her work in DUI defense and license reinstatement law. She is consistently rated a perfect 10 on independent legal platforms such as Avvo and Justia, which independently rate attorney services. In 2024, Wirth was recognized by Expertise as one of the Best DUI Lawyers in Chicago. She has received the Avvo Client’s Choice Award annually since 2015, and has repeatedly won the Martindale-Hubbell Client Champion Award.

With extensive experience in handling complex DUI-related revocations, Jennifer Wirth leads a law practice that prioritizes strategic advocacy, detailed preparation, and personalized service. Her practice is built on helping individuals work to reinstate their Illinois driver’s license.

Common Reasons for Driver’s License Suspension or Revocation.

The Illinois Secretary of State has the authority to revoke or suspend driving privileges for many reasons. Some revocations are mandatory under 625 ILCS 5/6-205, while others are discretionary under 625 ILCS 5/6-206. Some examples of mandatory and discretionary offenses are listed below.

Mandatory Revocation Offenses

• DUI conviction in Illinois
• DUI conviction in another state while holding an Illinois license
• Reckless homicide involving a motor vehicle
• Aggravated fleeing or attempting to elude police
• Felony offenses involving the use of a vehicle

Discretionary Suspension or Revocation Offenses:

• Three or more moving violations within a twelve-month period
• Use of a fake ID or permitting fraudulent use of a driver’s license
• Second conviction for illegal transportation of alcohol within a twelve-month period

Many individuals may face more than one type of suspension or revocation, each of which must be addressed to clear a driver’s license. A license reinstatement attorney evaluates the full driving record and develops a clear legal strategy to resolve each issue appropriately.

Driving Relief Options Through the Secretary of State Hearing Process

The Illinois Secretary of State offers several types of relief, depending on the individual’s eligibility, history, and current circumstances. A basic overview appears below.

Full Reinstatement of Driving Privileges

Full reinstatement allows unrestricted driving for any legal purpose. Once granted, the driver is no longer subject to mileage, time, or location limitations. No interlock device is required. The driver must pay reinstatement fees and complete any requirements before a license is issued.

Out-of-State Clearance

Out-of-state residents who have an Illinois revocation may apply for reinstatement for the purpose of clearing the Illinois hold. This allows the individual to obtain a license in another state. Upon approval, reinstatement fees must be paid, and the individual may need to submit an SR-22 waiver or other documents. In certain scenarios, a restricted permit may be required before full licensing if the person later moves back to Illinois. It is critical to consult with an Illinois driver’s license attorney if contemplating a move back to Illinois after out-of-state clearance or reinstatement has been granted.

Hardship Permits

Hardship permits are available in situations where the inability to drive causes a documented hardship. These permits are typically limited to essential purposes, such as employment, school, medical care, court-ordered treatment programs, daycare, and support group attendance. The applicant must show that no reasonable alternative transportation is available and that granting a permit does not present a risk to public safety.

Probationary Permits

Probationary permits are available for qualified drivers and allow travel for any lawful purpose within a defined radius of residence, generally up to 200 miles. Most permits are valid for twelve hours per day, six days per week. A breath alcohol ignition interlock device (BAIID) may be required as a condition of the permit.

BAIID Multiple Offender (BMO) Permits

Illinois residents with two or more DUI convictions are typically required to drive for five consecutive years on a BMO permit before becoming eligible for full reinstatement. This permit requires use of a BAIID device and is renewed every two years through the Secretary of State hearing process. Gaps between permit periods may delay the reinstatement timeline.

The Secretary of State Hearing Process

The Illinois Secretary of State conducts both formal and informal hearings to determine whether to grant driving relief. The type of hearing required depends on the reason for the revocation or suspension.

Formal Hearings

Formal hearings are required for serious revocations, including those involving DUI, reckless homicide, or felony offenses with a vehicle. These hearings are similar to court proceedings. They involve sworn testimony, direct and cross-examination, and submission of documentation. A hearing officer presides, and an attorney from the Secretary of State’s office may participate. A written decision is issued within ninety days of the hearing.

Informal Hearings

Informal hearings are used for less serious matters, such as multiple moving violations or certain discretionary suspensions. These hearings are conducted on a walk-in basis at designated Secretary of State facilities. The hearing officer completes a written record and submits findings to the Secretary of State for review. A decision is mailed after review of the file.

The Importance of Legal Representation

Driver’s license reinstatement hearings involve both law and strategy. An experienced attorney provides guidance on how to meet those requirements and presents a complete, consistent case. Representation typically includes:

• Reviewing the complete driving record and Secretary of State hearing file
• Organizing testimony and ensuring accuracy with supporting documents
• Advising on required evaluations, treatment, or risk education
• Reviewing abstinence letters, support group documentation, and BAIID records
• Managing deadlines and coordinating submissions to the State

A driver’s license attorney ensures that the case is developed properly and that a client highlights relevant, persuasive testimony in an organized fashion. They also review hearing topics in advance with a client to screen for inconsistencies with other evidence. Through preparation, a client is better positioned to present a winning case.

Flat Fees, Payment Plans, and Free Consultations

Wirth Law offers flat fees for driver’s license reinstatement representation, with no hourly billing or hidden charges. The firm also provides payment plans through Affirm for eligible clients. All prospective clients are offered a free consultation to review eligibility, evaluate the driving record, and develop a tailored legal plan.

Schedule a Consultation

Residents of Kankakee County seeking professional assistance with license reinstatement or DUI-related license issues are encouraged to contact Wirth Law for a consultation. The firm may be reached at (312) 761-8290 or by email at jennifer@wirthlaw.org.

With decades of focused experience, a high success rate, and a commitment to client service, Wirth Law provides trusted legal representation for driver’s license reinstatement throughout Kankakee County and beyond.