Defending DWLS charges and helping restore your driving privileges in Clark County.
Free Case EvaluationIn the state of Washington, individuals driving with a suspended license face legal penalties and potential complications that can impact various aspects of their lives. Understanding the intricacies of driving with a suspended license and its potential repercussions is crucial to making informed decisions and taking appropriate action.
While both suspension and revocation remove your driving privileges, they have different requirements for regaining those privileges. For suspension, it may be as simple as renewing your license, or if your license was suspended because of a DUI you will still be able to drive with an ignition interlock. Generally speaking, suspension allows for alternatives when driving and usually lasts less than a year. Revocation is more serious as there are no options available for you to drive during the revocation period, which is usually more than a year.
If you are driving with a suspended or revoked license and are a habitual offender, you may be charged with Driving with License Suspended in the First Degree. A habitual offender is defined as an individual who, in the past 5 years, has had 3 or more convictions related to traffic crimes, or has had 20 or more traffic violations.
Driving with a suspended or revoked license can be charged as Driving with License Suspended in the Second Degree. This crime is also categorized as a Gross Misdemeanor.
You can be charged with Driving with License Suspended in the Third Degree if you are driving with a suspended or revoked license due to failure to respond to a traffic ticket or if your license has expired.
| Degree | Classification | Maximum Jail | Maximum Fine |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Degree (habitual offender) | Gross Misdemeanor | 364 days | $5,000 |
| 2nd Degree | Gross Misdemeanor | 364 days | $5,000 |
| 3rd Degree | Misdemeanor | 90 days | $1,000 |
If you are driving with a revoked license from another state, you will be charged according to Washington state law. A conviction for driving with a suspended license can have long-term effects, including:
The Department of Licensing (DOL) has a free tool that tells you what you need to do to reinstate your license. If you still have questions, a driving abstract will provide more information about why your license is suspended and when you will be able to reinstate. A discussion with a knowledgeable attorney can further clarify your next steps. Having a suspended license need not end in a criminal charge.
Driving with a suspended license in Washington is a serious offense with potentially severe consequences. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help assess your case, explore available legal defenses, and work towards a favorable resolution. By understanding the intricacies of the law and taking appropriate action, you can minimize the potential impact on your life and work towards reinstating your driving privileges responsibly.
Call the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer today at (360) 334-6277 to schedule a consultation with one of our highly qualified attorneys.
Don’t face legal challenges alone. Our experienced attorneys are ready to fight for you.