Driving with a Suspended License in Miami-Dade County

South Florida Suspended License Attorney

One of the most common criminal traffic offenses in Miami-Dade County and Broward County is driving with a suspended license, also known as driving while license suspended (DWLS). Driving on a suspended license with knowledge that the license is suspended is a crime whereas driving while license suspended without knowledge that the license is suspended is an infraction.

• Penalties include:
• DWLS is a second-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to 60 days in jail.
• If a driver has previously been arrested for DWLS, the crime becomes a first-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to 1 year in jail.

In order to be charged with driving with a suspended license, the prosecution must prove that you were operating a car within the State of Florida while your driver's license was suspended and that you knew that your license was suspended. The element of knowledge can be proven by introducing a certified driving record that will show that a notice of suspension was mailed to your address.

DWLS can become a felony if you have at least two prior convictions for DWLS. This crime is known as third or subsequent DWLS. If you have been designated a Habitual Traffic Offender (HTO), you can face up to 5 years in state prison if you are caught driving.

Pleading guilty to driving with a suspended license can lead to your becoming an HTO. It's important that you never plead guilty to a DWLS charge without first consulting a Miami-Dade County suspended license attorney. It's also important to know how to fix your driver's license so that your driving privilege is no longer suspended. If your driver's license is suspended and you are pulled over, you could be issued a Promise to Appear (PTA) or physically arrested. Either way, being charged with driving on a suspended license can lead to serious consequences.

Contact Our Miami-Dade County Criminal Defense Firm Today

Miami-Dade County traffic defense lawyer Eric Matheny has represented a multitude of clients on varying charges and has the skills and experience to put together the best defense and go to court to fight your charge.

Call today to schedule a free initial appointment and discuss your case!