Los Angeles Criminal Lawyers Blog
Many people believe that a violation of Vehicle Code §14601 is an infraction and does not care with it significant consequences or penalties. This is not true. Driving with a suspended license is a serious charge, and can result in a misdemeanor conviction.
The statute reads as follows:
“No person shall drive a motor vehicle at any time when that person’s driving privilege is suspended or revoked for reckless driving in violation of Section 23103, 23104, or 23105, any reason listed in subdivision (a) or (c) of Section 12806”
If you are found guilty of driving with a suspended license, then you may be facing anywhere between 5 days in jail to 6 months, and a fine of $300.00 to $1,000.00. The final sentence will take many different factors into account, such as prior offenses, the facts of your case, available defenses and other variable facts that the Judge will consider. There are several defenses that are available to the person being charged as well.
For example, if you had no notice that your license was suspended. Regardless, the relevant code section outlines the different scenarios in which you may still be charged. For example, if you have not kept the DMV updated of your current address, if they have proof of mailing and that you received it. If you are facing a situation in which you have been charged with driving on a suspended license, it is important to consult with a Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney.
It may seem that the charge is minimal compared to others, but it may affect your insurance rates, your ability to get a license, and if you are on probation it may be a probation violation. Oftentimes when a person has been charged with a criminal offense, such as a DUI, they are put on probation. The terms of their probation prohibit them from getting arrested, or charged for another criminal offense. Doing so, may result in a probation violation, or additional sentencing added to the original charge.
A probation violation is its own offense, and will result in another criminal case being opened against you. If you, or someone you know finds themselves in this situation, advise them to seek the help of a Los Angeles Criminal Defense attorney as soon as possible.