Driver's Responsibility Fee After DUI In Another State

[CharlesBaltimore]

Greetings,

I was arrested in Pennsylvania for DUI, although I am a licensed driver in the state of Michigan. In PA, I entered into their ARD program, which is considered a "pre-trial" rehabilitative program. I did not have a trial in front of a judge and never technically convicted of DUI. Rather, I was placed (and am currently on) probation, require to report to my PO on a regular basis, and pay fees associated with the program, attend alcohol classes, etc. After the term of my ARD is over (1 year) and completed all aspects of the program, my DUI charges will be thrown out/expunged/never happened.

However, I just recieved a note in the mail from the state of Michigan claiming I owe them $1000 dollars under their Driver Responsibility Fee. They said I was convicted of the DUI, which I never was, and fall under this ridiculous fee. My problem is that if I was never technically convicted and never went to trial as part of the ARD program and in 6 months any record of my DUI won't exist, why would I have to pay this fee?

Any help would greatly be appreciated. Thank you.

[Mr. Knowitall]

You can read the statute here. The Secretary of State's overview of the rule is here. Pennsylvania apparently sent Michigan an abstract of conviction for the charge, or a document interpreted as an abstract of conviction, triggering this fee. You will have to try to dispute the fee within the Secretary of State's system, 1-888-SOS-MICH (1-888-767-6424).