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!
What Our Clients Have to Say
Client Testimonials
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"Eric is a great lawyer."I was charged with three felony charges related to check fraud. Eric used his expert knowledge to help resolve the charges with one day of jail served on the day that I surrendered myself to have charges filed.- Former Client
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"In a stressful and confusing time Eric was like a breeze of fresh air."He made everything very clear and easy to understand and always kept me up to date with any changes.- Camila
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What Makes Attorney Eric M. Matheny the Right Choice?
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Tried 50+ Jury & Non-Jury TrialsAttorney Eric M. Matheny has tried enough cases to know that every case deserves a unique strategy in the courtroom. Our firm keeps your future in mind and always protects your rights.
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Recognized Criminal Defense AttorneyAttorney Eric M. Matheny has been named among the “Best Criminal Lawyers in Miami” three years in a row: 2017, 2018 and 2019, by Expertise.com.
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Experienced Former ProsecutorWith an insider’s perspective on the justice system, he has the ability to assess the strengths and weaknesses of a case to make wise decisions about how to proceed with your defense.
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A Trusted Voice in the NewsA featured commentator on The Rick Jensen Show on WDEL, on the radio program “Let's Talk About,” and in the Miami New Times, Miami Herald, Sun Sentinel, and other publications.
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Payment Plans OfferedWe believe everyone deserves high-quality legal representation at an affordable rate.