A seemingly minor oversight like driving with a suspended license can snowball into serious consequences in CA.
Driving with a suspended license is a misdemeanor crime, and if convicted you could face jail time and a massive fine.
“A misdemeanor is a type of offense punishable under criminal law. A misdemeanor is typically a crime punishable by less than 12 months in jail.”—Cornell Law School Legal Information Institute (LII).
Understanding the offense and your rights is crucial. This blog post explores the implications of driving with a suspended license in Lamont, CA in Kern County and the importance of legal representation.
Pulled Over for Driving with a Suspended License? Here's What to Do
Imagine cruising down Highway 46 or I-5 with your family when you see flashing lights. Routine traffic stops can become stressful, especially if your license is suspended.
Remember, "I didn't know" is rarely a viable defense for driving with a suspended license. However, it might be true if you recently moved and didn’t update your address with the DMV.
Always discuss the details with an attorney.
The Potential Consequences of Driving with a Suspended License
In California, driving with a suspended license is a misdemeanor crime, not just a traffic ticket. A conviction carries a base fine of up to $1,000, but court fees, assessments, and surcharges can easily push that amount to nearly $2,000.
The financial implications are just one aspect. A conviction can also result in jail time. Kern County could lock you up for up to six months, or you might face up to two years’ probation.
Beyond the Fines and Jail Time: Long-Term Impacts of Driving with a Suspended License
The repercussions extend beyond immediate legal and financial ramifications.
A conviction for driving with a suspended license creates a criminal record, impacting your reputation and future opportunities. Employers, friends, and family may view you differently.
This criminal record could hinder your ability to secure employment, schooling, a security clearance, or housing.
Don't Face Driving with a Suspended License Charges Alone
The legal system can be complex, especially when facing a misdemeanor charge like driving with a suspended license. An experienced Shafter traffic attorney can be your beacon of hope.
Mitigating the Charges: Wobblers and Negotiation
Many judges consider driving with a suspended license a "wobbler," meaning it can be treated as a misdemeanor or an infraction depending on the circumstances.
The Cornell Law School LII WEX defines a wobbler or woblette as:
“A wobbler/woblette can be punishable as either misdemeanor or an infraction and has been referred to as an ‘alternative misdemeanor/infraction.’ Whether a wobblette should be treated as a misdemeanor or an infraction is up to a trial court's discretion, but in California, the defendant must agree.”
Although it might seem like a no-brainer to accept a downgrade from a misdemeanor to an infraction, it is always wise to consult an attorney before accepting a plea deal from the court.
A skilled lawyer can negotiate with the judge or district attorney on your behalf. The goal might be to reduce the charge to an infraction with no jail time or probation. However, this doesn't preclude contesting the charge entirely.
Fighting the Charges: Possible Dismissal or Reduced Charges
With strong legal representation, there's a chance of getting the charges dismissed or reduced.
Technicalities and procedural errors might exist that benefit your case. An attorney will meticulously analyze every detail to achieve the best possible outcome.
Don't Take Chances: Secure Legal Help for Driving with a Suspended License
While driving with a suspended license might seem insignificant, the consequences, if convicted can be severe.
If you face such charges in Shafter, CA in Kern County, remember: You don't have to go through this alone.
Contact an traffic lawyer with trial experience to protect your rights and safeguard your driving privileges.
Consult Bigger & Harman, the Kern County Traffic Ticket Defense Team
If you need assistance with a driving with a suspended license charge in Shafter Courthouse in Kern County, contact the office of Bigger & Harman, APC, at (661) 349-9300. Se habla Español (661) 349-9755.
Our Kern County defense attorneys possess the resources needed to dispute your charges or negotiate a reduced charge, as we have done for other clients across the state. We have a strong familiarity among Kern County courts and are also familiar with many county judges, many of those we have first-hand knowledge of having argued cases before them already. This could give us an edge if we represent you.
Alternatively, use our handy online contact form or email attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com. Send a copy/picture of your citation and a summary of the stop.