Caught Driving with a Suspended License?
Getting behind the wheel of a car just seems so natural that many people forget driving is a privilege. Whether it’s too many speeding tickets or failure to pay a ticket, the government has the right to suspend the license of anyone who fails to follow the rules of the road.
A suspended license can certainly make life challenging, which is why many people continue to drive despite the fact that they have lost their driving privileges. In the state of Florida, there are an estimated 2.2 million people whose licenses have been revoked or suspended, and many of them continue to drive. If you have been arrested from driving with a suspended license, contact a criminal defense lawyer in Miami immediately.
Driving with a revoked or suspended license is risky business. Depending on the situation, it could result in hefty fines and possible jail time. The penalty depends on the offense. For example, someone who has their license suspended without their knowledge would be found guilty of a civil infraction, which bears a monetary consequence; however, the offense may be dismissed if the individual obtains and presents a valid driver’s license. On the other hand, someone who is caught driving with a suspended license and knew of the suspension will likely be found guilty of a criminal offense. The penalties will vary and are dependent on whether it is a first offense or if has happened more than once.
- First Offense – A first offense would be considered a second degree misdemeanor, which could result in up to 60 days in jail, up to six months of probation and a monetary fine of $500.
- Second Offense – A second offense would be classified as a first degree misdemeanor, which has the potential to result in up to one year of jail time, up to one year of probation and a fine of $1,000.
- Multiple Offenses – Multiple offenses can be considered a third degree felony, which could result in up to 5 years of jail time, up to five years of probation and a $5,000 fine.
Being charged with a suspended license, even if it is a minimal offense, could be costly and has the potential to mar an individual’s driving record. As such, avoiding a suspended license charge is recommended.
Whether your license has been suspended without your knowledge or you knew about the suspension, if you are caught driving in the Miami area, seeking the counsel of a Miami criminal defense attorney would be very beneficial.
With the help of a Miami criminal lawyer, a driving with a suspended license charge could be reduced, which would result in lower penalties, or the charge could be completely dropped. Your attorney will have your best interest in mind and will work to achieve the best possible outcome.
Driving with a suspended license is taking very seriously in the state of Florida and could result in serious consequences. If you are pulled over while driving with a suspended license, contact a criminal lawyer in Miami as soon as possible.