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What to Do if You’re Caught Driving While Suspended
Driving with a suspended license can lead to significant legal and personal consequences. As such, knowing how to respond and what steps to take can help you reduce penalties and work toward a better outcome. This article provides guidance on what to do if you’re caught driving while suspended and how to address the challenges ahead.
The Jeff Jarrett Law Office in Kansas City, Missouri, has served clients throughout the community as well as Jackson County, Missouri; Clay County, Missouri; Johnson County, Kansas; Wyandotte County, Kansas; and Leavenworth County, Kansas. Here’s what the firm recommends doing if you’re caught driving while suspended
What Driving While Suspended Means
Driving while suspended (DWS) means operating a vehicle when your driver’s license has been revoked or temporarily invalidated by the state. A suspension prevents you from driving legally, often due to violations or administrative issues. It’s critical to understand the reasons behind your suspension to address it properly and avoid future violations.
Some of the most common reasons for license suspension include the following:
Driving record points: Accumulating too many points from traffic violations can lead to an automatic suspension.
DUI or DWI convictions: Driving under the influence can result in the immediate loss of your driving privileges.
Unpaid fines or tickets: Ignoring court costs, traffic citations, or other fees often results in suspension.
Insurance violations: Allowing your vehicle insurance to lapse is another frequent cause of suspension.
Understanding why your license is suspended allows you to take the right steps to address the issue and prevent further legal trouble.
Immediate Steps to Take if You’re Pulled Over
If you’re stopped by law enforcement while driving with a suspended license, the way you handle the situation can affect your case. Staying calm and mindful during the traffic stop can help avoid escalating the situation and strengthen your position later.
Stay respectful and composed: Speak politely to the officer and provide any requested documents, such as your ID and vehicle registration.
Avoid making admissions: Don’t acknowledge that you were aware of the suspension, as this could be used against you. Instead, inform the officer that you prefer to discuss your case with a lawyer.
Take note of the details: Write down key information such as the officer’s name, badge number, and the location of the stop. Keep a record of the events during the stop, as this may be useful in building your defense.
Handling the stop thoughtfully can help protect your legal rights and prepare you for what comes next.
Legal Consequences of Driving While Suspended
Driving while suspended is a serious offense with penalties that vary depending on the circumstances of your case. Both Missouri and Kansas impose significant fines and other penalties, which can increase if you have prior offenses or other aggravating factors.
In Missouri
First offense: This is considered a misdemeanor, punishable by up to six months in jail and fines of up to $500.
Subsequent offenses: Repeated violations can lead to more severe penalties, including longer jail sentences and higher fines.
In Kansas
First offense: This is categorized as a Class B misdemeanor, carrying penalties of up to six months in jail and fines of up to $1,000.
Repeat offenses: These may be charged as felonies, resulting in steeper fines, longer incarceration, and harsher restrictions on your driving privileges.
In both states, penalties can include vehicle impoundment, which adds further stress and financial burden to the situation.
Defenses Against Driving While Suspended Charges
If you’re facing DWS charges, it’s important to remember that legal defenses may be available. These defenses depend on the circumstances of your case and the specific reasons for your suspension. An experienced attorney can evaluate the details to find a defense that reduces your penalties or helps you avoid conviction.
Some common defenses for DWS charges include:
Challenging the suspension: Your lawyer can argue that your license was improperly suspended or that you were unaware of the suspension.
Emergency circumstances: Driving under legitimate emergency situations can sometimes be used as a valid defense in court.
Law enforcement errors: Any mistakes made during the traffic stop, such as lack of probable cause, may lead to your case being dismissed.
With a clear legal strategy, you may be able to lessen the impact of DWS charges on your life and driving record.
Steps to Reinstating Your Driver’s License
If your license has been suspended, working to reinstate it is critical to moving forward. The process involves addressing the underlying reasons for the suspension and meeting the administrative requirements set by your state. Restoring your driving privileges can help you avoid further legal trouble.
Resolve the original issue: Pay any outstanding traffic tickets, fines, or court costs that led to the suspension. Complete any mandated programs, such as driving courses or substance abuse education.
Apply for reinstatement: Submit the necessary forms and pay the required reinstatement fees to your local Department of Motor Vehicles. Provide proof of insurance, such as an SR-22 certificate, if applicable.
Verify your driving status: Confirm with the DMV that your license has been reinstated before driving again to avoid further penalties.
Taking these steps allows you to restore your driving privileges and prevent additional violations.
Why You Should Hire Attorney Jeff Jarrett
Handling a driving while suspended case without proper legal guidance can lead to worse penalties than necessary. Attorney Jeff Jarrett has been helping clients in Missouri and Kansas with these types of charges since 1985.
His years of experience allow him to provide knowledgeable and practical advice for anyone dealing with a suspended license case.
Hiring Jeff Jarrett can benefit your case in several ways:
Knowledge of state laws: He is well-versed in Missouri and Kansas traffic laws related to suspended licenses.
Tailored legal strategies: Jeff reviews the details of your case to identify options that work toward a favorable outcome.
Support throughout the process: He assists with court appearances, negotiations, and even steps to restore your license.
With Attorney Jarrett’s help, you can address your case confidently and take steps to protect your future.
Tips to Avoid Future Suspensions
Avoiding future license suspensions is key to maintaining your ability to drive legally. Being proactive about your responsibilities as a driver can help prevent repeated violations and keep your record clean.
Consider the following tips to reduce the risk of future suspensions:
Pay fines and tickets on time: Resolving citations promptly can prevent them from escalating to suspensions.
Maintain proper insurance: Regularly verify that your vehicle is insured and meets state requirements.
Monitor your driving record: Check your record periodically to address issues before they lead to suspension.
Attend all court dates: Failing to appear for traffic-related matters can result in immediate suspension.
Taking these steps helps you stay compliant with the law and avoid unnecessary complications in the future.
What to Expect in Court
If you’re charged with driving while suspended, you’ll likely have to appear in court. Each stage of the legal process plays a critical role in determining the outcome of your case. Having an attorney to guide you through each phase can help you achieve the best possible results.
The court process typically includes the following:
Arraignment: This is your first court appearance, where the judge reads the charges, and you enter a plea.
Pre-trial negotiations: Your attorney may discuss the case with prosecutors to seek reduced charges or penalties.
Trial: If your case proceeds to trial, evidence will be presented, and your lawyer will argue your defense.
Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will determine the penalties, which could include fines, jail time, or extended license suspension.
Attorney Jeff Jarrett has extensive experience in representing clients during every stage of the legal process.
How Jeff Jarrett Can Assist You
Since Jeff Jarrett has significant experience helping clients accused of driving while suspended, he understands the importance of addressing these cases effectively to minimize penalties and protect your ability to drive. Jeff’s focus is on providing the guidance you need to resolve your legal matters.
Working with Jeff Jarrett includes the following benefits:
Detailed case analysis: He reviews the specifics of your case to determine the best course of action.
Strong representation: Jeff works to reduce penalties or have charges dismissed when possible.
Ongoing support: From court proceedings to license reinstatement, Jeff provides assistance throughout the process.
His commitment to helping clients achieve positive outcomes makes him a valuable resource for anyone facing DWS charges.
Call Today to Learn More
Driving with a suspended license can have far-reaching consequences, but with the right support, you can move forward. Attorney Jarrett has been assisting clients with suspended license cases since 1985 and has the knowledge to guide you through this process.
Contact the Jeff Jarrett Law Office today to discuss your case and explore your legal options.