Everyone pays a dear price for a DWI landing on their record, but none so high as an FAA Certificated Pilot. The FAA takes DWIs very seriously, regardless of whether the pilot ever violated a FAR (Federal Aviation Regulation).
Many pilots don’t understand the gravity of the situation when they get charged with a DWI. Without a proper defense, the FAA can revoke the pilot’s license, even if the pilot is found to be not guilty. Even if they don’t revoke the license, the pilot can see consequences for their land-locked activities.
Why the FAA Cares About Your DWI
Pilots have special obligations beyond those of ordinary drivers. FAR 61.15 states that “each person holding a certificate issued, by the FAA, shall provide a written report of each motor vehicle action, not later than 60 days after the motor vehicle action. Given that both a criminal DWI conviction and an implied consent driver’s license revocation can be considered a “motor vehicle action,” this language often leads to confusion in the minds of pilots who are presumed to be innocent of the charges they are fighting but may be required to tell the FAA about it anyway.
Understanding when and how to notify the FAA of your DWI case is the best way to avoid seeing action taken against your pilot’s license. This requires a thorough understanding of the law and experience with both DWI law and aviation law. There are only a few law firms in the state that can provide that kind of focus.
DWI Defense that Soars Above the Rest
Jeff Sheridan has over 30 years of experience defending people accused of drunk driving and is a commercial pilot who first soloed on his 14th birthday. He not only understands the complexities of Minnesota’s DWI law and FAA regulations but also understands the incurable passion of aviators. The idea of clipped wings is unimaginable, and our goal is to avoid you ever having to live it. If you hold a pilot’s certificate and have been charged with a DWI, you need someone in your corner who understands both unique problems you are facing. Contact Sheridan & Dulas, P.A. today to schedule your free consultation and get the defense you need.
