Tucson Suspended License Defense

Driving Without a License or With a Suspended License

In many cases, a traffic citation is not that big of a deal.  Although we can end up having to pay a fine, accumulate points on our driver's license (which results in higher insurance rates), not dealing with a traffic ticket properly can result in a license suspension.  Having a suspended license, and then getting pulled over again is where the problems can really get tricky.  Having a suspended or revoked driver's license can feel like being stuck in quicksand, and the problems compound with repeated traffic violations.  If you or a loved one has a suspended or revoked, it is important to identify the reason or reasons your license is suspended or revoked, and work to get it reinstated as quickly as possible.  If you have also been charged with driving on a suspended or revoked license, your best chance at avoiding additional penalties and consequences will be to retain an attorney familiar with the criminal and traffic laws in Arizona.  Tucson Defenders offers free, no obligation consultations.  Call 520-585-5757 to discuss your situation and determine the best plan for getting you back on the road legally.

Your driver's license can be suspended or revoked for a number of reasons, including, but not limited to:

• Driving under the influence
• Refusing an alcohol or drug test
• Accumulating 8 or more points within a 12 month period
• Failure to pay a fine
• Failure to appear in court
• Leaving the scene of an accident
• Committing a felony using a motor vehicle
• Reckless driving
• False statements under oath to the MVD.
• Failure to pay child support
• Driving privilege is suspended in another state

There is a wide range of potential penalties for driving with a suspended or revoked license, an expired license, or without ever getting a driver's license.  If your license was suspended for failure to pay a fine or failure to appear on a traffic violation, the driving on a suspended license violation will also be treated as a civil traffic matter.  As a civil traffic matter, you face only a fine and possible points.  All other suspensions (e.g. DUI suspension) are criminal misdemeanor (first degree) violations of ARS 28-3473.  First degree misdemeanors are punishable by up to 6 months in jail and a fine of up to $2500.  Though jail time is not a common consequence for first time offenders, repeat or aggravated offenders can go to jail for driving on a suspended or revoked license.

Another common consequence of driving with a suspended license is that your vehicle can be impounded for 30 days.  Not only does this mean that you (or anyone else) can use your vehicle for that time, but you will also be responsible for towing and storage fees.  Additionally, if being arrested for DUI while driving on a suspended license, the DUI charges will be elevated to Aggravated DUI.  Those on probation for DUI or other criminal charges also risk a probation violation for picking up a new suspended license case.

Getting your license back can be a complicated process, depending on the specific reason or reasons that you have a suspended license.  One thing that is undeniable is that it is always best to deal with your suspended license issue as soon as possible - before you encounter additional obstacles.  Moreover, the process of reinstating your driving privilege may take a long time; you will have to resolve all traffic violations, and may have to take additional steps with the MVD to get your license back.  If you have received a recent traffic violations, you may have to wait to be able to get a license, but should still get started on a plan to reinstate your license as soon as possible.  If your suspension was alcohol-related, you may need to install an ignition interlock device (IID) to get a restricted license. 

Driving on a suspended or revoked license is not the crime of the century, but does come with significant consequences.  Ultimately, your goal should be to restore your driving privilege as soon as possible to avoid compounding the problem with new cases and charges.  Due to the many different ways that your license can be suspended or revoked, fixing the root problem or problems can be complicated, and having an experienced, knowledgeable Tucson Criminal Defense Lawyer on your side can make the process much easier.  Contact the Tucson Defenders for a FREE CONSULTATION to discuss your driver's license or other criminal case.  520-585-5757.

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