Leon Valley, TX ALR Hearing Attorneys

Protect Your Driver’s License After a DWI Arrest

If you’ve been arrested for DWI in Leon Valley, Texas, it’s critical to understand that you’re facing two separate legal cases — a criminal DWI charge and a civil administrative action against your driver’s license. The administrative case, known as the Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing, is time-sensitive and can result in a license suspension of up to two years if not handled promptly. You must request an ALR hearing within 15 days of your DWI arrest or your Texas driver’s license will be automatically suspended.

At Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers, our experienced Leon Valley criminal defense attorneys represent clients at ALR hearings and fight aggressively to preserve your driving privileges. Our firm helps you navigate this critical early phase of your DWI case while also preparing a strong defense for the criminal charges ahead.

What Happens at an ALR Hearing in Leon Valley, TX?

The ALR hearing is an administrative proceeding held by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). It is separate from your criminal court case and focuses solely on whether your driver’s license should be suspended based on the events of your DWI arrest.

Here’s what typically happens:

• Your DWI lawyer will present evidence and cross-examine the arresting officer.
• The hearing officer will determine whether the officer had reasonable suspicion or probable cause to stop or arrest you.
• If you refused or failed a chemical test (breath or blood), the state will try to prove your license should be suspended under Texas’ implied consent laws.

This is your first opportunity to challenge the evidence in your DWI case — and in many instances, your ALR hearing testimony can be used to weaken the prosecutor’s case in criminal court.

License Seizure and Temporary Driving Permits

Under Texas law, if you refuse a chemical test or your BAC is 0.08 or higher, the arresting officer can confiscate your driver’s license on the spot and issue a temporary driving permit (Form DIC-25). The DPS will then notify you of its intent to suspend your license unless you request an ALR hearing within 15 days. Failure to act means automatic suspension.

• Refusal: Denying a blood or breath test results in a 180-day license suspension (or longer for prior refusals).
• Failure: A failed test (BAC ≥ 0.08 or evidence of controlled substances) can lead to a 90-day suspension, or up to two years with prior DWI-related suspensions.

Don’t assume this is just a formality. ALR hearings can be won, and your right to drive can be preserved — especially with a skilled Leon Valley DWI defense attorney representing you.

Why You Need an ALR Hearing Lawyer in Leon Valley, TX

A successful defense at your ALR hearing can:

• Prevent or reduce your license suspension
• Reveal weaknesses in the arresting officer’s testimony
• Help you prepare for your criminal DWI trial
• Challenge the legality of the traffic stop, detention, or chemical testing

At Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers, we understand how high the stakes are in your DWI case. With every conviction, penalties escalate dramatically — and losing your license can impact your job, family, and finances. That’s why we provide comprehensive DWI legal defense, from ALR hearings to trial.

If you’re searching for a DWI lawyer near Leon Valley or a criminal defense attorney in Bexar County, contact us today for a free consultation. Let us fight to keep you on the road and protect your future.

You Only Have 15 Days to Request an ALR Hearing in Texas

If you’ve been arrested for DWI in Leon Valley or anywhere in Texas, you have only 15 days from the date of your arrest to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing. This hearing is completely separate from your criminal DWI case and strictly concerns the status of your driver’s license.

Failing to request the ALR hearing within 15 days means your license will be automatically suspended, often for up to two years. The exact length of the suspension depends on two factors:

1. Whether you refused a chemical test, and
2. Whether you have prior DWI convictions on your record.

If no hearing is requested, the automatic suspension takes effect on the 40th day after your arrest.

Once you formally request your ALR hearing with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), you’ll receive a letter with the time, date, and location of your hearing. Until that date, you may legally drive with the temporary permit issued after your license was seized.

This administrative process plays a critical role in preserving your driving privileges while your DWI case is pending. To protect your license and build a strong defense from day one, contact a Leon Valley DWI lawyer immediately. A skilled criminal defense attorney can guide you through the ALR process and help you avoid unnecessary penalties.

What to Expect at an ALR Hearing in Leon Valley, TX

If you’ve been arrested for DWI in Leon Valley or Bexar County, one of your first opportunities to fight back is through an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing. This proceeding is not a criminal trial—it is a separate administrative process focused solely on whether your driver’s license will be suspended. However, it serves as a critical first step in building your DWI defense.

At the ALR hearing, both you and the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) present evidence before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This judge will listen to arguments, assess the evidence, and determine whether your license suspension should be upheld or overturned. In many ways, the hearing resembles a mini-trial, and how you handle it can significantly impact your case.

How Your Criminal Defense Attorney Fights the Suspension

A skilled Leon Valley criminal defense attorney will use the ALR hearing to challenge the grounds for your arrest and fight to preserve your driving privileges. The strategy may include:

• Proving the initial traffic stop was unlawful or lacked reasonable suspicion
• Demonstrating the arresting officer lacked probable cause to arrest you for DWI
• Challenging the validity or admissibility of blood or breath test results
• Highlighting inconsistencies in the officer’s report or testimony
• Arguing that field sobriety tests were improperly administered

Each of these defenses can undermine the administrative case and increase your chances of retaining your license while your criminal charges are pending.

What the State Will Argue

The State’s goal is to justify the suspension by proving you either refused chemical testing or failed a test by having a BAC over the legal limit or controlled substances in your system. They may also bring the arresting officer to testify. However, an experienced DWI defense lawyer can cross-examine the officer and attack the credibility and procedures used during your arrest.

Why the ALR Hearing Matters

Beyond fighting the civil license suspension, the ALR hearing gives your criminal defense attorney early access to vital evidence and testimony. This can reveal weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, setting the stage for a stronger defense in your criminal DWI trial. That’s why it is vital to involve a DWI lawyer near Leon Valley immediately after your arrest.

At Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers, we treat every ALR hearing as a chance to get ahead of the case and protect your driving record and future. If you’re searching for a criminal defense attorney in Bexar County, our team is here to help you fight from day one.

What Happens With Witness Testimony and the Judge’s Decision at an ALR Hearing in Leon Valley?

When preparing for your Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing in Leon Valley, your defense attorney plays a critical role in uncovering weaknesses in the state’s case. At Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers, we request all available DWI-related evidence in advance, including dashcam footage, bodycam video, officer reports, and witness statements. This allows us to build a strategic defense tailored to the unique circumstances of your arrest.

The Importance of the Arresting Officer’s Testimony

At your ALR hearing, the arresting police officer may be subpoenaed to appear and testify about your DWI stop. If the officer is present, your criminal defense lawyer will have the opportunity to cross-examine them. This is one of the most important parts of the ALR hearing. Your attorney may question:

• The legality of the traffic stop
• The probable cause used to justify your arrest
• Inconsistencies in the police report or dashcam footage
• The accuracy and administration of sobriety tests
• The officer’s interpretation of your behavior during the stop

This cross-examination is often the first opportunity to directly challenge the foundation of the state’s case—and a powerful tool to weaken their DWI evidence in both the administrative and criminal proceedings.

What If the Officer Doesn’t Show Up?

If the arresting officer fails to appear, it can significantly improve your chances of winning the ALR hearing. Without the officer’s live testimony, the Department of Public Safety often struggles to meet its burden of proof, which can lead to a dismissal of the license suspension. Because the officer is typically the state’s most important witness, their absence is a strategic advantage for your defense.

ALR Hearing Deliberation and Final Judgment

After both sides present their arguments, the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) will review all submitted evidence, officer testimony (if present), and your attorney’s defense. The ALJ then renders a final decision. If the judge finds in your favor, your Texas driver’s license will not be suspended. However, if the decision goes against you, your license will be automatically suspended, with the duration depending on your DWI history and whether you refused chemical testing.

No matter the outcome, your ALR hearing provides an early and crucial opportunity to uncover evidence, preserve your rights, and lay the groundwork for your full DWI defense. That’s why having a DWI lawyer near Leon Valley who understands ALR procedures and cross-examination strategies is so important.

At Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers, we aggressively defend your right to drive and prepare from day one to beat the charges against you. Schedule your free consultation with our criminal defense attorneys in Bexar County today.

What Happens if You Win or Lose Your ALR Hearing in Leon Valley, TX?

If you’ve been arrested for DWI in Leon Valley or Bexar County, your case will trigger two separate legal tracks — one criminal and one administrative. The Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing focuses solely on your driver’s license. Whether you win or lose your ALR hearing, the outcome will directly impact your driving privileges in Texas.

What Happens if You Lose Your ALR Hearing?

If you lose your ALR hearing in Leon Valley, your driver’s license will be automatically suspended. The length of the suspension depends on your individual case:

• First-time DWI offense: License may be suspended for up to 6 months
• Refusal to submit to chemical testing: Suspension may be extended to 180 days or more
• Repeat or aggravated DWI cases: Suspension could last 1 to 2 years

This license suspension is separate from any criminal penalties you may face. Even if your DWI charges are ultimately dismissed, losing the ALR hearing means your license suspension will still go into effect unless it’s appealed.

Benefits of an ALR Hearing—Even If You Lose

While losing the ALR hearing may feel like a setback, it still offers valuable advantages. Your DWI defense attorney will gain early access to key evidence the state plans to use against you, including officer reports, chemical test results, video footage, and any witness statements. This insight allows your legal team to:

• Spot weaknesses in the prosecution’s case
• Challenge procedural issues
• Begin preparing a more effective criminal DWI defense strategy

This early discovery process can shape the entire course of your DWI defense and potentially lead to dismissal or reduced charges later on.

Occupational Licenses After Losing an ALR Hearing

If your license is suspended, you may still be able to drive legally by applying for an occupational driver’s license in Bexar County. This restricted license allows you to drive:

• To and from work
• To medical appointments
• For essential household duties (like picking up children from school)

However, occupational licenses come with limitations, such as restricted driving hours and mandatory use of an ignition interlock device in some cases. A skilled Leon Valley DWI lawyer can help you file for and obtain this license as quickly as possible.

Can You Appeal the ALR Hearing Decision?

Yes. If you lose your ALR hearing, you still have the right to appeal the decision. However, Texas law provides only a short window and limited grounds for appeals. Appeals must be based on specific legal or procedural errors—not simply dissatisfaction with the outcome. Your criminal defense attorney can guide you through the process and help determine whether appealing is worth pursuing.

What Happens if You Win Your ALR Hearing?

If you win your ALR hearing, your driver’s license will not be suspended. But that doesn’t mean you’re automatically back on the road. To fully reinstate your license, the following steps are required:

1. Complete the DPS reinstatement form
2. Submit the form to the Texas Department of Public Safety
3. Include a $125 reinstatement fee (via check or money order)
4. Follow any additional conditions set by the court or DPS

Once the reinstatement is processed, your full driving privileges will be restored.

Winning an ALR hearing can also improve your chances in your criminal case. A favorable decision by the Administrative Law Judge may cast doubt on the legality of your arrest, probable cause, or the reliability of chemical test results.

Protect Your License and Freedom with a Trusted DWI Defense Lawyer

At Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers, we know how devastating a DWI arrest can be. Whether you’re preparing for an ALR hearing or facing felony DWI charges, our Leon Valley criminal defense attorneys fight to protect your rights at every stage. If you’re searching for a DWI lawyer near me, our firm offers aggressive defense, personalized legal strategies, and free consultations. Don’t lose your license without a fight—contact our DWI defense law firm today.

Contact Our Leon Valley ALR Hearing Attorney Today

If you’ve been arrested for DWI in Leon Valley or anywhere in Bexar County, time is critical. You only have 15 days from the date of arrest to request your ALR hearing — and failing to do so could mean an automatic driver’s license suspension lasting up to two years. But here’s what many people don’t realize: not all DWI defense lawyers handle both sides of your case.

Some criminal defense attorneys only represent clients in the criminal courtroom and do not provide legal representation at the Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing. At Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers, we take a different approach. Our experienced Leon Valley DWI lawyers fight for you on both fronts — defending your license at the administrative level while preparing a strong defense for your criminal DWI charges.

Whether you need help challenging a license suspension, requesting an occupational license, or fighting for your freedom in a felony DWI case, we’re ready to help. Don’t risk your driving privileges or future on an attorney who only does half the job.

Call Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers today at (956) 368-0000 to schedule a free, confidential consultation with a proven criminal defense lawyer who understands Texas DWI laws from every angle. Let us protect your license, your record, and your future.

Frequently Asked Questions About ALR Hearings in Leon Valley, TX

What is an ALR Hearing and Why Does It Matter After a DWI Arrest in Leon Valley?

An ALR hearing, short for Administrative License Revocation hearing, is a legal proceeding initiated by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) following a DWI arrest in Leon Valley. It is entirely separate from the criminal case for DWI. This hearing focuses solely on whether your Texas driver’s license should be suspended due to either a failed or refused chemical test (breath or blood). Many people underestimate the importance of the ALR process, but it can significantly impact your ability to drive and even your DWI criminal defense strategy. If you were recently arrested in Leon Valley for driving while intoxicated, contacting a local DWI defense attorney as soon as possible is critical to protect your license and legal rights.

How Long Do I Have to Request an ALR Hearing After a DWI in Leon Valley?

You only have 15 days from the date of your arrest to request a formal ALR hearing. If you fail to make this request, your driver’s license will be automatically suspended on the 40th day after your arrest. The length of suspension depends on whether you refused or failed the chemical test and whether you have prior DWI convictions. A first offense might lead to a 90-day suspension, while repeat DWI offenders can face a license suspension for up to two years. Hiring a DWI lawyer in Leon Valley immediately after arrest can ensure your hearing is requested on time.

What Happens at the ALR Hearing in Bexar County or Leon Valley?

During the ALR hearing, both you and the state present evidence to an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). The hearing often includes reviewing police reports, breath or blood test results, and officer body cam footage. Your DWI attorney will attempt to show that the arresting officer lacked probable cause, violated your rights during the stop, or that chemical testing was flawed. You may even get the opportunity to cross-examine the arresting officer, which provides a preview of the evidence the prosecution might use in your criminal case. Even if you ultimately lose the ALR hearing, the information gathered can strengthen your DWI defense moving forward.

Can I Drive While Waiting for My ALR Hearing in Leon Valley?

Yes. After your license is seized at the time of arrest, you’ll be issued a temporary driving permit that allows you to drive legally until your ALR hearing occurs. This permit remains valid until the hearing concludes and a final decision is issued. Depending on the court’s schedule, it can take weeks or even months before your ALR hearing is held, giving you time to prepare and consult with an experienced Leon Valley criminal defense lawyer.

What If I Lose My ALR Hearing in Leon Valley, TX?

If the judge rules against you at your ALR hearing, your Texas driver’s license will be suspended—typically for 180 days to 2 years, depending on your prior record and whether you refused or failed a chemical test. However, losing the ALR hearing doesn’t mean you’re out of options. You may qualify for an occupational driver’s license (ODL), which allows limited driving privileges for work, school, and essential household duties. A knowledgeable Leon Valley DWI attorney near you can file for this restricted license and guide you through compliance requirements like installing an ignition interlock device.

What If I Win My ALR Hearing?

If your attorney successfully defends your license at the ALR hearing, your driving privileges will be fully restored, and you won’t face administrative suspension. However, this does not affect the criminal side of your DWI case. Still, a favorable ALR result often indicates weaknesses in the state’s evidence, which your lawyer can use to seek dismissal or reduced charges in criminal court.

Why Should I Hire a Leon Valley DWI Attorney for My ALR Hearing?

ALR hearings are legal proceedings where technical arguments and evidence matter greatly. Many defendants fail to take these hearings seriously and end up losing their license due to avoidable errors. An experienced Leon Valley DWI lawyer will ensure deadlines are met, your hearing is properly requested, and that all procedural defenses are raised. More importantly, a lawyer can begin building your criminal defense by gathering evidence, spotting inconsistencies in the police officer’s report, and challenging the probable cause for your arrest. The sooner you involve a DWI attorney, the better your chances of saving your license and reducing criminal penalties.