After a DUI arrest in Orange County, two separate processes begin: a criminal court case and a DMV license action. These proceedings operate independently and have different deadlines and consequences.
In most cases, the arresting officer issues a notice of license suspension. Drivers typically have a limited time to request a DMV hearing to challenge the suspension. If no hearing is requested, the suspension may take effect automatically.
At the same time, the criminal case moves forward in court, usually starting with an arraignment, followed by pretrial hearings, negotiations, and possibly trial. The outcome of both the court case and the DMV action can affect penalties, driving privileges, and long-term consequences.
