Anyone found driving while their license is suspended will be held criminally responsible in the State of Florida. Many drivers do not know how severe the penalties can be for such actions and how seriously the matter should be taken. In order to fight any traffic offense, it is important to hire a reputable law firm that specializes in traffic-related cases. A misrepresented case can easily get out of hand and result in the driver suffering a much heavier punishment than is necessary.
Taking responsibility for your actions is crucial as it will be evidence of good character whilst showing that you understand the seriousness of the situation. Many drivers only find out that their license has been suspended after being pulled over for a traffic stop, but it is still possible to be charged with driving on a suspended license without knowledge. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FHSMV) can use this infraction to suspend your license for up to five years.
If you have been caught driving with a suspended license in North Port, then you need an experienced criminal defense lawyer to represent you. It is essential that you take the time to find representation with in-depth knowledge of Florida law so that they can build you the strongest case possible. At The Law Place, we have a combined experience of over 75 years and have overseen many cases involving traffic violations. We will use our expertise to help you get the defense you need.
Call us today for a free consultation at (941) 444-4444. Phone lines are open 24/7.
Penalties for Driving With a Suspended License in North Port, Florida
Speaking to a criminal defense attorney immediately after receiving a charge is vital. We at The Law Place will be able to use the experience they’ve gained through helping many other clients in similar situations. We will advise you on the next steps to take so that you come out on top.
In Florida Statute 322.34, the penalties you may face for driving with a suspended license are outlined. These include:
- First offense – If this is the first time you have been caught driving with a suspended license but with full knowledge of its suspension, then you will be convicted of a second-degree misdemeanor. This means that you could face up to 60 days in county jail, plus a fine of up to $500.
- Second offense – If you are being charged with driving with a suspended license for the second time, then you will be convicted of a first-degree misdemeanor. This charge could see you facing up to one year in jail, plus a fine of up to $1,000.
- Third offense – If this is your third time caught driving with a suspended license, then you will face a felony charge. Penalties are up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.
- Habitual traffic offender – If your criminal record shows that you have been previously charged with three counts of driving with a suspended license, then your license can be revoked for up to five years. The FHSMV also classes such offenders as habitual traffic offenders, making them unable to obtain a hardship license for a year.
Reasons for Suspending a License in Florida
There are a variety of reasons why the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles may decide to suspend your driver’s license. These include:
- An accumulation of points on your license from other traffic violations, resulting in a license suspension.
- A habitual traffic offender classification.
- Failure to make child support payments.
- Failure to pay fines or court costs.
- Failure to appear in court.
- Failure to pay compulsory vehicle insurance.
- Arrest or conviction for a DUI.
- Refusal to take a DUI breathalyzer test.
- Previous drug conviction.
- A previous petty theft conviction.
- Fleeing from the scene of the crime.
- Facing charges of racing on Florida highways.
Potential Defenses for Driving With a Suspended License in North Port, Florida
When your criminal defense attorney begins building your case, they will start by collecting all the necessary information, liaising with the prosecution team, and building a defense strong enough to minimize the harshness of your penalties.
There are a variety of common defenses that attorneys may use when representing a client for driving with a suspended license. These include:
- Using evidence to prove that you were not the driver.
- Your traffic stop was not legally conducted by the law enforcement officer.
- You were not traveling on a public highway.
- According to the Florida Statutes, your vehicle is not classed as a ‘motor vehicle.’
- Your attorney can show that you were not aware of your suspension.
- You had reason to believe that your license had been reinstated.
The criminal defense attorneys at The Law Place have a strong reputation for building defense strategies that get the best results for our clients. With many successful cases, our team will ensure that all your questions are answered and that you become our top priority.
Getting the Help You Need From a Criminal Defense Attorney in North Port, Florida
You may be facing serious charges for driving with a suspended license and feeling unsure about what steps to take next. That is why you need an experienced criminal defense lawyer that can represent you and ensure that the penalties you face are as minimal as possible.
At The Law Place, we have the necessary experience that you need in a defense team. We take the time and attention that is required to develop a strong defense strategy, using the initiative of our whole team. Your concerns and questions will always be heard as we communicate with you every step of the way.
If the prosecutor cannot prove, beyond any reasonable doubt, that you were driving with a suspended license, then we suggest that you take your case to trial. This is where your attorney will prove imperative to the success of your case. From beginning to end, they will support you so that you do not make mistakes that can easily be problematic in cases like yours.
We understand that you have many questions that will need to be answered before you decide to hire The Law Place as your chosen representation. This is why we offer a free consultation service, giving you the chance to voice any of your concerns, queries and allow you to get to know our team.
After deciding to hire our law firm as your representation, we will get straight to work on collecting facts, dealing with all the necessary paperwork, and beginning to create a plan for your defense. We work hard to ensure that all our clients get the best results possible.
Our lines are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. So don’t delay any longer, call us today at (941) 444-4444.