What You Need to Know About Driving on a Suspended License in Florida

Florida judges and prosecutors take driving on a suspended license (DWLS) very seriously. A driver who enters a plea to a DWLS charge can potentially make him or her a habitual traffic offender (HTO), which could lead to a five-year suspension of driving privileges. If you face DWLS charge, working with an experienced criminal defense lawyer is the best way to protect your rights.

A Misdemeanor or Felony?

The fines and penalties for driving on suspended license depend on the reason why your license is suspended and if you have prior convictions. Florida Statute 322.34 stipulates three different levels of offenses.

·      First Offense – In an initial DWLS offense, you may be charged with a civil infraction or misdemeanor, depending on whether you are aware of the license suspension or not. Criminal charges apply if you are aware that your license has been suspended and yet you still drive. A conviction can lead you to jail for sixty days and make you pay five hundred dollars.

·      Second Offense – A second offense carries penalties up to one year in jail and a five hundred dollar fine. The offense may be considered a felony HTO if it is the “third strike” against you. This will result in a five-year suspension of your license to drive.

·      Third Offense – A third offense is considered a felony in the Sunshine State. This could result in five-year imprisonment and revocation of driver’s license for five years. On top of that, you can be labeled as a habitual traffic offender, whether you were imprisoned or not.

Speak to a DWLS Lawyer

When you face a DWLS charge, it is important that you talk to an experienced DWLS lawyer. The lawyer can evaluate your case. Choose a lawyer who is experienced in handling DWLS cases. This way your rights are not violated. The lawyer should carefully look into every angle of the case, whether the stop was illegal or if your Miranda Rights were violated.

Speaking to a lawyer before you make a decision like entering a plea is very important. The criminal defense lawyer can help you explore every possible avenue in obtaining a valid driver’s license. This includes helping you resolve criminal case and any administrative matter that has an impact on your driving privileges. Most importantly, a lawyer can guide you that this won’t happen again.

Visit our Delray Beach Florida DUI defense lawyers if you want to talk to a lawyer today!