If you are pulled over while driving with a suspended license in San Luis Obispo, California, the police officer has the authority to issue a criminal citation or pursue an arrest. The penalties and sentences for driving on a suspended license may depend on whether you knew of the suspension. Regardless, when you are subject to criminal charges, seek comprehensive criminal defense representation from a trustworthy attorney.
The Aron Law Firm puts maximum effort into each client’s matter and serves residents in San Luis Obispo who face suspended license charges. Such cases may be emotionally taxing on you and your family. Through years of practice in criminal law, the attorneys at the Aron Law Firm have built significant partnerships and a network of resources to help you overcome the challenges of criminal charges. When you need legal assistance or guidance, the Aron Law Firm is just a call away.
Common Reasons behind Suspended Licenses in San Luis Obispo
In San Luis Obispo, driving with a suspended license is a common and serious traffic offense. When a license is suspended, motorists are prohibited from driving for a specific amount of time. Revocation is the permanent suspension of a driver’s license. A driver’s license may be suspended for various reasons, including:
- Prior DUI or reckless driving conviction
- Excess points on license
- Failure to appear in court
- Auto insurance violations
- Unpaid parking tickets
To be charged with driving on a suspended license, California prosecutors must prove that the defendant was driving with a suspended license, had knowledge of the suspension, and willfully chose to drive anyway. Upon completing your suspension, you may visit your local DMV to reinstate your driver’s license. You may have to pay a reinstatement fee and provide the DMV with necessary documentation like proof of insurance.
Establishing Knowledge of Driving with a Suspended License
Generally, the prosecutor’s argument relies on demonstrating persuasive evidence that shows the driver had knowledge of their suspension. In the State of California, a driver is presumed to have knowledge of a license suspension if:
- The DMV sent you a notice of the suspension to your respective mailing address
- A judge notified you of the suspension
- A law enforcement officer informed you of the suspension at the time of your arrest or citation
Although these circumstances suggest your awareness of your license suspension, they don’t necessarily warrant your knowledge. A trusted suspended license defense lawyer in San Luis Obispo may help construct a practicable, fact-based defense to attain the best possible results for your case.
Consequences of Driving on a Suspended License in San Luis Obispo
Driving on a suspended license in California is classified as a misdemeanor offense. Proposed regulations that provide guidance to deducting certain penalties, fines, and other sentences depend on the specifics of your case. California judges consider a number of factors when determining your punishment, including your driving record, criminal history, and the grounds of your suspension. Criminal penalties for driving on a suspended license in San Luis Obispo may include but are not limited to the following:
- Fines up to $1,000 for a first-time offense and up to $2,000 for each subsequent offense
- Incarceration for up to six months for a first-time offense and up to 12 months for any subsequent offenses
- The installation of an ignition interlock device that prevents intoxicated people from starting their car
A conviction of driving on a suspended license with knowledge may stay on your criminal record, possibly damaging the chances of job or credit applications in the future. Your best strategy to avoid or minimize the penalties that may arise from driving on a license suspension is to work with an intelligent criminal defense lawyer in San Luis Obispo.
Restore Your License with Skilled San Luis Obispo Suspended License Lawyers
In a suspended license case, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant was aware of their license suspension. Being aware means that the defendant knew the risk of driving with a suspended license yet still made the conscious decision to get behind the wheel. Turning to a passionate criminal defense attorney with a proven track record of winning suspended license cases in San Luis Obispo may be your most effective strategy for protecting your rights.
At the Aron Law Firm, led by former CA Deputy District Attorney William Aron, our suspended license attorneys work strategically and efficiently to get you back out on the road. Our experience in criminal law gives us unique insight into the criminal process, including how to develop a compelling argument on your behalf. Through our unwavering commitment to justice, we work diligently for each of our clients and pride ourselves on delivering professionalism, respect, and excellence. Contact our office today at (805) 500-0759 or complete an online contact form to schedule a confidential case evaluation.
