If the state has suspended your license, you’re not allowed to drive unless you have a restricted license that allows you to drive to and from specific locations such as work, school, and medical appointments.
Penalties for Driving With a Suspended License in Northern VA
Virginia law classifies driving on a suspended license as a criminal misdemeanor. The potential legal penalties depend on how many times you’ve been caught driving with a suspended license. Specifically, you may face:
- Up to 12 months in jail, up to $2,500 in fines, and an additional suspension of your license for your first or second offense.
- A mandatory minimum 10-day jail sentence plus up to 12 months in jail, up to $2,500 in fines, and an additional suspension of your license for your third or more offense.
How a Lawyer Can Help in A Criminal Case
To be convicted of driving on a suspended license, the Commonwealth of Virginia must prove that you were driving a motor vehicle on a public road, that your license had been suspended, and that you knew that your license was suspended when you were driving. If the prosecutor cannot prove one or more of these elements, you cannot be convicted. An experienced lawyer can help determine whether you have a defense that could be successful in court.
However, our experienced lawyers may be able to help you even before you are charged with a misdemeanor. If you believe that your Virginia driver’s license was wrongfully suspended, we may be able to help you get your license reinstated. Likewise, if you believe your license is about to be wrongfully suspended, we may be able to help you before that happens.
Not being able to drive can have a significant impact on your life, on your ability to work, and on your ability to take care of your family. However, it is important that you don’t make matters worse by driving on a suspended license. For more information about how to protect your rights, please contact our experienced defense lawyers now by calling 877.652.1553.
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