Video: The Difference Between Formal & Informal Illinois Driver’s License Reinstatement Hearings

February 15, 2025

Transcript:

For over twenty years, our Chicago law office has been representing revoked drivers at Illinois license reinstatement hearings.

In this video, we explain the difference between informal and formal hearings with the Illinois Secretary of State.

The reason for a license suspension or revocation determines the type of hearing that is required to request driving privileges.

Informal hearings are intended for minor suspensions or revocations, such as having too many traffic tickets in a specific period.

Informal hearings are held at many driver’s services locations on a walk-in basis.

At an informal hearing, the hearing officer meets with the applicant and their attorney in an office setting.

During an informal hearing, the hearing officer sits at their desk and asks the applicant several questions.

The informal hearing officer makes written notes of an applicant’s responses, but there is no audio recording of the hearing.

In contrast, a formal hearing is more like a trial.

A formal hearing request must be made in writing and accompanied by a filing fee to the Secretary of State.

Unlike informal hearings, formal hearings are only held at four locations across the state: Chicago, Joliet, Springfield, and Mount Vernon.

At a formal hearing, a Secretary of State hearing officer presides over the proceeding.

The Secretary also has their own attorney, who is present at the hearing to protect their interests.

A revoked driver can bring their own attorney to protect their rights and advocate on their behalf.

Before testifying, a witness is given an oath, and the proceedings are recorded by the Secretary.

During a formal hearing, both parties can submit evidence and present questions to the revoked driver.

At the end of a hearing, whether informal or formal, the applicant for driving privileges is not given an immediate decision.

When a hearing is concluded, the hearing officer makes a written recommendation as to whether driving privileges should be granted.

The recommendation of the hearing officer is reviewed before a final, written decision is sent to the applicant.

Before attending a hearing, a revoked driver should consult with a driver’s license reinstatement attorney about their specific case.

Our office is happy to provide a free consultation. Please do not hesitate to contact the office at (844) WIRTH-LAW or visit our website at www.frontlinelegal.com.