Getting caught driving with a suspended or revoked license is a criminal offense in Alabama. The penalties can be severe, so talking with an experienced criminal defense lawyer right away is essential to learn your legal options.
Reach out to Bence Law Firm, LLC today. Criminal defense attorney David Bence is dedicated to preserving the rights of all Alabamans. Whether your license was suspended or revoked due to a DUI or other infraction, you can rely on David to identify the best defense strategy to meet your needs and protect your best interests.
When you work with our firm, you get the benefit of working directly with David to discuss your case and get the personalized attention you deserve. Call or fill out our online contact form for a free consultation today.
Driving Without A License In Alabama
Even if your driving record is spotless, it’s illegal to drive without a valid license in Alabama. You can be charged with “license not in possession,” but it’s usually a minor traffic violation that can be resolved without a conviction if you’re able to produce a valid license to the court or arresting officer. Sometimes you just make a mistake.
Driving On A Suspended Or Revoked License
The situation gets more complicated if you’re caught driving with a suspended or revoked license. There’s a reason your license was withdrawn or terminated in the past. Examples of offenses that could result in a suspension or revocation include:
- A previous DUI conviction
- Driving or being in “actual physical control” of a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) over the legal limit of 0.08
- Refusing a DUI breath or blood test
- Being involved in a car accident or hit-and-run crash causing death, injury, or more than $500 in property damage
- Being convicted of manslaughter or homicide by vehicle
- Driving without insurance
- Making false statements to police about the motor vehicle
- More than 12 to 24 points on your license in 2 years
- Reckless driving
- Unpaid child support
- Unpaid traffic tickets
Be aware that your driver’s license could also be suspended or revoked for other reasons, such as being declared physically or psychologically unfit to drive.
Penalties
The penalties for driving on a suspended or revoked license could include steep fines, jail time, and an increase in the suspension or revocation period. Your vehicle could also be impounded.
If you were convicted of DUI, you may also be required to have an interlock ignition device (IID) installed on your vehicle. You must complete a breath test for alcohol by blowing into the IID before starting the car.
The consequences for driving with a suspended or revoked license worsen with subsequent convictions, upgrading a misdemeanor charge to a felony one.
Some Alabama motorists with suspended or revoked licenses can obtain a “hardship driver’s license.” This would allow you to drive with limited privileges if:
- You participate in a work-release program through the Alabama Department of Corrections.
- You participate in a compliant Community Corrections Program.
- You have no reliable source of transportation.
- You are released from the Department of Corrections’ custody.
How A Phenix City, Al Driver’s License Suspension Lawyer Can Help
Driving on a suspended or revoked license in Alabama can affect your ability to work, go to school, and simply get around town. An experienced lawyer can help with appeals and review your case to see what other legal avenues you may be able to pursue. For a free consultation, call or contact Bence Law Firm, LLC today.