Virginia Beach Driving on a Suspended License

Each year, thousands of Virginia drivers are issued traffic citations for speeding and other minor traffic offenses. The typical punishment for these types of violations often entails paying a specified fee or enrolling in a driving education program. However, more serious charges—such as DUI and reckless driving—can often lead to a driver’s license suspension. The penalties are even harsher for drivers who ignore this restriction, and continue to drive with a suspended license. In Virginia Beach, driving on a suspended license is a serious criminal offense, and is punishable by fines and/or jail time. Fortunately, with help from an attorney, you may be able to avoid such consequences.

There are numerous offenses that can cause a person to lose his or her driving privileges, with DUI and reckless driving being the most common. While both crimes are two of the most serious traffic offenses a person can commit, driving on a suspended license is even more dangerous. In fact, driving with a suspended license is classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor, a category that includes the most serious misdemeanor crimes.

Although the penalties for driving on a suspended license can vary greatly based on your prior driving record, your sentence may include up to six months in jail, a $1,000 fine, and an additional license suspension—and that’s just for a first offense. Habitual offenders face even more severe charges if they are repeatedly caught driving on a suspended license and, in some cases, could permanently lose their driver’s license.

Fortunately, there are many defenses options that you can use to fight the charges against you. Drug and alcohol abuse are not uncommon in cases that involve repeated incidents of driving on a suspended license, as many habitual offenders struggle with addiction problems. In such cases, an experienced attorney may be able to negotiate an alternate sentence, such as drug or alcohol counseling, in lieu of jail time.

After defending clients just like you for more than a decade, attorney Michael C. Tillotson has become well-versed in Virginia’s criminal and traffic laws, with his expertise including years of representing drivers accused of driving on a suspended license.

Remember, you must be proven guilty in a court of law before you can be convicted of driving on a suspended license, and the right defense can be the difference between avoiding conviction and losing your driving privileges. Mr. Tillotson will work with you to create a strong defense strategy for your case. Contact attorney Michael C. Tillotson today for a free consultation on your case.