There seems to be some confusion on the definition of customized self-help program.
Due to COVID-19 the program was re-designed to self-help since hearings and court assignments turned into Zoom meetings, and many government offices didn’t allow walk-ins. The program was having issues with being allowed to schedule, and Zoom meetings made it next to impossible to attend hearings.
** The program does not attend court as we are not attorneys and now allowed to give legal advice. In the past, we would attend for moral support and educational purposes if that service was requested and paid. **
With the re-designed program, all the research is still done for you and a step-by-step plan of action is put together along with referrals. Keep in mind, once you start the steps, you need to follow-through to the end or you won’t receive the desired results.
I had someone comment that they can just get a print off from the Department of Motor Vehicle Services and can just pay and be valid…. It isn’t that simple. As you pay fines off at the county level, there is a high-risk that you will still remain revoked, or even withdrawn for a period of time. Paying fines is an admission of guilt at the court level and carries a penalty on the Motor Vehicle Services level.
The program is designed to address all matters keeping you from obtaining your license: state requirements, civil judgments, child support, tickets in collections, etc. The premise is to assist you in becoming a valid licensed driver so when you make a court appearance you are in a position to negotiate fine dismissals and modifications. In doing so, you are apt to receive lowered fine amounts and given time to pay. You could then clean up your driving record and potentially save money on your insurance premiums as well. Who doesn’t want to save every dollar possible?
I am often asked if the program assists with fine payments and reinstatement fees. The answer is no. I know there are some circumstances where career programs may assist with these costs. You would need to speak with your counselor or social worker.
The new process has made it possible to assist a greater number of people simultaneously. The success is now dependent solely on you following the steps. I know this may leave some people at unease. This is why you can send questions via email for ongoing support.
The timeframe to successful completion isn’t a simple 30-days. With courts scheduling allotted time Zoom meetings versus serving an office or courtroom full of people, the dates could be pushed out a few months. The end results are worth the wait.
I recommend utilizing this program if you have 3 or more gross misdemeanor moving violations; there could be more than one on a citation. Anything less than that, you could follow the the printout from Motor Vehicle Services – do not do this if you never had a driver’s license – as you may be eligible for a limited license during the revocation period.
Whatever path you decide, wish you success on your goal to become a valid licensed driver.
