As a California traffic ticket defense attorney with more than a decade of service to CA drivers, I've worked with many clients who were charged with driving with a suspended license. It's a serious offense that can leave a lasting mark on your life. However, with the right legal approach, it's possible to reduce the severity of the repercussions.
The Consequences of Driving with a Suspended License
In California, driving with a suspended license is usually charged as a misdemeanor offense. This isn't a simple traffic infraction that can be resolved by paying a fine. It's a criminal offense that carries heavy penalties.
According to CA Vehicle Code (CVC) Section 14601, Violation of License Provisions, conviction can result in fines of up to $1,000, up to six months in jail, and a criminal record that follows you for the rest of your life. Additionally, it adds two Negligent Operator Treatment System (NOTS) points to your driving record, which remain for ten years. This long-lasting blemish on your record can have significant financial repercussions, such as increased insurance premiums.
The Value of Legal Representation When Charged with Driving with a Suspended License
When faced with the prospect of a criminal record and a decade-long increase in insurance costs, it's clear why you need an attorney to dispute a charge of driving with a suspended license.
An experienced traffic attorney understands the nuances of California traffic law. We know the courts, the judges, and the legal strategies that can be used to defend you. Our role is to assess your case, examine the evidence, and determine the best defense strategy.
One option may be to plea down the misdemeanor to an infraction, depending on the circumstances and the judge assigned to the case. An infraction carries lesser penalties and doesn't result in a criminal record. However, there are other considerations. Always consult a traffic attorney before accepting a deal from the prosecution. If they’re willing to make a deal, they might not have a strong case.
For it to be a misdemeanor, you must have been “knowingly” driving with a suspended license. If the DMV sent notification to your last known address, you were notified. However, if you moved and the address the DMV had was your old address, you might be guilty of not notifying the DMV, but were you “knowingly” driving on a suspended license? An attorney can oftentimes raise “reasonable doubt” in this case.
“Whenever any person after applying for or receiving a driver's license moves to a new residence, or acquires a new mailing address different from the address shown in the application or in the license as issued, he or she shall within 10 days thereafter notify the department of both the old and new address.—CVC 14600 & Justia Law.
Don't Face Driving with a Suspended License Charges Alone
With so much at stake, it's crucial not to face a charge of driving with a suspended license alone. The legal landscape can be complicated, and the potential consequences can impact your life for years to come.
As defense attorneys, our goal is to help you navigate these complexities and work toward the most favorable outcome. We aim to protect your rights, your driving record, and your future.
Driving with a suspended license is a serious offense in CA. However, with the right legal guidance and representation, it's possible to manage the situation effectively.
If you're facing such a charge, we recommend reaching out to a knowledgeable traffic attorney as soon as possible. It's an investment in your life, your future, and your peace of mind.
Contact Bigger & Harman to Resolve a Driving with a Suspended License Charge in Lamont Traffic Court in Kern County, CA
When you face a charge of driving with a suspended license, you need Bigger & Harman, APC. Give us a call at (661) 349-9300. Se habla Español (661) 349-9755.
Use the contact form to schedule an appointment or send us an email attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.
References:
The CA Driver Handbook English y Español.
CVC 14600 & Section 14601, Violation of License Provisions.