After a DUI Arrest: Two Processes to Keep Track Of
A court date is not the only date that may matter after a DUI arrest. Start by reviewing the paperwork you received and identifying any separate DMV notice.
General information · Updated September 21, 2026. Not a substitute for legal advice about your case.
Court and DMV are separate
The criminal case concerns the charge. The DMV process concerns your driving privilege. According to the California DMV, you may request a hearing within 10 days of receiving a suspension or revocation order. Do not assume that a court date replaces that deadline.
Prepare a short list before you call
Have the arrest date, city, court date if listed, and the date you received any DMV notice ready. Keep release documents and notices together. Do not upload your license, identification numbers or a detailed account of the arrest to our initial request.
Ask about the scope of representation
Ask the lawyer whether the proposed services include both the court case and DMV hearing, who handles each, what the fee covers and what needs immediate attention. Do not assume that one appointment, payment or online request covers both processes.
A deadline should not wait for our reply
NEED A LAWYER? does not request DMV hearings or make court appearances. Contact the DMV or a lawyer directly about an urgent notice. We can review your request for a possible next step, but cannot promise representation or a particular result.
Official Resource
California DMV — Driving Under the InfluenceInformational content from NEED A LAWYER?. We are not a law firm or affiliated with these agencies.
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