Driving While License Suspended or Revoked

At first glance, a Driving While License Suspended or Revoked (DWLS) charge may seem minor. It might even appear to be just another routine traffic violation. In some instances, drivers can choose to pay a fine instead of going to court. However, a DWLS charge is far more serious than a routine traffic ticket. Ignoring the consequences could lead to long-term damage to your driving privileges and criminal records.

How Can Florida State Suspend Your Driver’s License?

A person’s license can be suspended for several reasons. If a person doesn’t pay child support or fails to maintain proper insurance, authorities can suspend their driver’s license. If a defendant receives two marijuana possession convictions or is convicted or arrested for DUI, the court may suspend their license. A driver can also face suspension by accumulating 12 points from moving violations, such as speeding tickets, within a one-year period.

Two Types of DWLS Charges: With or Without Knowledge

DWLS charges fall into two categories:

• DWLS with Knowledge: Depending on their history, a driver may be charged with a traffic offense classified as either a misdemeanor or a felony. This charge may carry penalties, including jail or prison time and significant fines.
• DWLS without Knowledge: A civil infraction, often resolved with a fine. This applies when the driver does not know that their license is suspended.

The difference between the two charges hinges on whether the driver knew that their license was suspended when they were driving.

Why DWLS Charges Matter?

Driving while license suspended can result in serious consequences. This includes the possibility of incarceration and significant impacts on driving privileges. Whether it is classified as a civil infraction or a criminal traffic offense, the repercussions can be severe. If an individual accumulates three DWLS charges and also faces charges for reckless driving or DUI offenses within a five-year period, authorities may revoke their license for five years. State Prosecutors and the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles classify individuals as Habitual Traffic Offenders in such cases.

Talk to a Lawyer First – We Can Help You

If you have received a DWLS (driving while license suspended or revoked) ticket, it’s important to proceed with caution. Simply paying the ticket or pleading guilty or “no contest” to a criminal DWLS charge could put you at risk of becoming a Habitual Traffic Offender (HTO) and facing a license suspension for five years. It is crucial not to pay these tickets without seeking legal advice first.

Contact an attorney to discuss your situation. The Law Offices of Whittel & Melton have extensive experience handling various types of DWLS cases and are ready to help you determine the best course of action for your unique circumstances. They can assist you in obtaining a valid driver’s license.