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Sarasota Driving With a Suspended License Attorney
Driving with a Suspended License in Florida: What You Need to Know
Driving is an essential part of daily life for many Floridians, but what happens when your license is suspended? Florida’s driving laws can be complex, and understanding the implications of driving with a suspended license is crucial to avoid further legal troubles. Anthony G. Ryan is dedicated to providing you with the information and legal assistance you need if you find yourself facing charges for driving with a suspended license.
Understanding License Suspension in Florida
In Florida, a driver’s license can be suspended for various reasons, including unpaid traffic fines, failure to appear in court, DUI convictions, or accumulating too many points on your driving record. When your license is suspended, you are legally prohibited from driving. It’s vital to understand the specific reason for your suspension, as this can impact the legal repercussions you may face.
The Law on Driving with a Suspended License
Under Florida Statutes, driving with a suspended license is considered a serious offense. If you’re caught driving with a suspended license, you could be charged with a misdemeanor or, in certain circumstances, a felony.
- Misdemeanor Charges: If you drive while your license is suspended for reasons such as failing to pay fines or penalties, you may face a second-degree misdemeanor charge. This can result in up to 60 days in jail, fines of up to $500, and the possibility of longer suspension periods.
- Felony Charges: If your license was suspended due to a prior DUI conviction or if you have multiple suspensions, you may face third-degree felony charges. This can lead to severe penalties, including up to five years in prison, fines up to $5,000, and a permanent mark on your criminal record.
- Habitual Traffic Offender (HTO) Revocation: If you are convicted of three or more enumerated traffic offenses within a five-year period, you will be designated a habitual traffic offender and your driver’s license will be revoked for 5 years.
That means if you get three or more convictions for DUI, vehicular manslaughter, any felony where a motor vehicle is used in the commission of the offense or driving with a suspended license you will lose your privilege to drive for 5 years and will not be able to get a business purposes only/ hardship license for 12 months. Call criminal defense attorney Anthony G. Ryan immediately if you get a letter notifying you that you have been designated as a Habitual Traffic Offender. In certain circumstances, we may be able to file a motion to vacate or change one of the prior convictions that made you a habitual traffic offender in the first place. This could remove the HTO designation from you driving record and allow you to get your driver’s license back immediately.
Legal Defenses Against Suspended License Charges
If you have been charged with driving with a suspended license, it is essential to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney. There are several potential defenses that may apply, including:
- Lack of Knowledge: If you did not know that your license was suspended, this may be a valid defense, particularly if you were not properly notified.
- Improper Suspension: If there were errors made by the DMV or other authorities in suspending your license, you might have grounds for dismissal.
- Emergency Situations: If you had a legitimate emergency that necessitated driving, this might be considered when evaluating your case.
The Importance of Legal Representation
Navigating the legal system can be daunting, especially when facing charges that could result in significant penalties. Hiring a qualified criminal defense attorney can help you understand your rights and options. Anthony G. Ryan is an expert in criminal trial law with over 25 years of experience. He is well-versed in Florida’s traffic laws and can provide you with personalized strategies to fight your charges.
Move Forward with Confidence
If you are facing charges for driving with a suspended license, don’t wait to seek legal help. The consequences of a conviction can have lasting impacts on your life, including job loss and increased insurance rates. Contact criminal defense lawyer Anthony G. Ryan today for a free consultation to discuss your situation. He is here to help you navigate this challenging time, protect your rights, and work towards the best possible outcome for your case.
Conclusion
Florida takes driving with a suspended license seriously, and understanding the charges you may face can help you make informed decisions. With proper legal guidance, you can address these charges and work towards reinstating your driving privileges. Remember, you are not alone – Board Certified Specialist Anthony G. Ryan is here to assist you every step of the way.