If you face a charge of driving on a suspended license, you should get expert legal counsel on what to do. Work with an experienced Orange County defense attorney to get the help you need. First, find out more about this charge and how it could impact you to understand why personalized advice for your case is so crucial.
What Is Driving on a Suspended License?
Driving with an expired license falls under Vehicle Code (VC) 14601. If you have had your driver’s license suspended or revoked for reckless driving charges, such as driving under the influence (DUI), you cannot drive until the suspension period ends.
- Charges of driving on a suspended license require two things proven:
- The individual knew about the suspension or revocation
- The person operated a motor vehicle while their license was revoked or suspended
Proof of knowledge of the suspension can mean that the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) mailed a notification to the individual’s address on file and was not returned. So, even if the person did not get the letter, the state still assumes that they knew about the suspension because the DMV sent a letter.
What Are the Consequences of Driving on a Suspended License?
Conviction of driving with a license that is suspended comes with several potential consequences depending on the circumstances, such as whether it was the first offense or if the suspension was due to reckless driving or DUI.
First convictions of this charge result in misdemeanor punishments of imprisonment in jail for five days to six months and a fine ranging from $300 to $1000. If the suspension resulted from a DUI, punishment for a conviction also includes the installation of a vehicle ignition lock on all vehicles the induvial uses for no more than three years.
Any prior offenses within the last five years increase the potential punishment for this charge. Imprisonment time in county jail increases to a range of 10 days to one year. Fines raise to $500 to $2000.
Defenses for Driving on a Suspended License
Because the charge of driving on a suspended or revoked license requires proof that the person drove with their license suspended and knew about it, defenses may show that one of these was false. Additionally, a guilty plea may happen if the person drove in an emergency or on private property for their employer in an employer-owned vehicle.
Get Legal Help in Orange County from the Law Office of Steven K. Bloom
If you face charges of driving on an expired license in Orange County, get legal advice and help from an experienced defense attorney who works hard for his clients. Connect with the Law Office of Steven K. Bloom for a free consultation on your case. You need support as you go through the California legal system. Get help from Steven K. Bloom to find sound legal guidance and support.
Sources
https://skbesq.com/dui-vehicle-violation
https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=VEH§ionNum=14601
