Miami, FL Driving With a Suspended License Lawyer

Skilled Attorney for Charges of Driving on a Suspended or Revoked License in Miami, Florida

There are a variety of reasons that a person's driver's license may be suspended. Because driving is necessary for many people as they commute to and from work or carry out other essential tasks, some may be tempted to continue driving even if they do not have a valid license. However, driving with a suspended license can lead to additional criminal charges, and a person could face penalties such as heavy fines, extended suspension periods, and even jail time.

To address charges of driving with a license that has been suspended or revoked, it is crucial to secure representation from an attorney who has experience representing clients in cases involving traffic violations. At The Hoffman Firm, our lawyer can evaluate the situation to determine whether a license suspension can be challenged and defend against charges of driving on a suspended license. We will work to reduce or dismiss the charges a person may face and help resolve these situations while minimizing penalties that may affect their license, their finances, and their freedom.

Why a Driver's License May Be Suspended or Revoked in Miami

A person may be subject to a driver's license suspension or revocation for many reasons, including traffic offenses, failure to meet legal obligations, and criminal convictions. Common reasons for license suspension in Florida include:

• Points on a Driving Record: Florida operates on a point system, with different types of traffic violations adding points to a person's license. A driver who accumulates too many points within a certain period may face suspension.
• DUI Convictions: An arrest for driving under the influence can lead to the suspension of a driver's license, even if a person is never convicted. Failing a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) test or refusing to take a test will result in a license suspension, and a DUI conviction will lead to a license revocation.
• Failure to Pay Traffic Tickets or Fines: Unpaid traffic citations can result in a license suspension until the fines are paid or addressed in court.
• Driving Without Insurance: Florida law requires all drivers to maintain car insurance. A lapse in coverage can lead to a suspended license.
• Failure to Appear in Court: If a driver does not appear for a scheduled court date, their license may be suspended until the matter is resolved. In some cases, a bench warrant may also be issued for their arrest.
• Failure to Pay Child Support: The Florida Department of Revenue can request a license suspension for non-payment of child support.
• Habitual Traffic Offender (HTO) Status: A driver with at least three serious traffic offenses of 15 traffic violations that add points to their driving record within five years may be classified as a habitual traffic offender, resulting in a five-year license revocation.

Penalties for Driving With a Suspended or Revoked License in Florida

In most cases, a first offense of driving without a valid license is a second-degree misdemeanor. A conviction may lead to a jail sentence of up to 60 days, as well as a maximum fine of $500. A second offense and any additional offenses will usually be charged as first-degree misdemeanors, with a possible jail sentence of up to one year and a maximum fine of $1,000.

In some cases, a third or subsequent offense may be charged as a third-degree felony. This charge may apply if a person's license was suspended or revoked due to a DUI conviction, a refusal to submit to a BAC test after being arrested for DUI, a traffic violation that resulted in serious injuries or death, or a conviction for fleeing and eluding police. Third-degree felony charges will also apply for any offense in which a person drives after their license has been suspended because they have been designated as a habitual traffic offender. A third-degree felony carries a potential sentence of up to five years in prison, as well as a maximum fine of $5,000.

Contact Our Miami Driving With a Suspended License Defense Attorney

When you have been charged with driving with a suspended or revoked license in Miami, you will need to take immediate legal action to help ensure that you can avoid severe penalties. At The Hoffman Firm, our lawyer can review your case and help you determine the best defense strategy that will prevent serious penalties and allow you to regain your driving privileges. Set up a free consultation today by contacting us at 305-249-0090 or online.