Driving is a state-authorized privilege, not an inherent right. Motorists in Illinois have to complete a driver’s education course, pass tests and pay fees to obtain a driver’s license. They also have to consistently follow traffic laws to retain a driver’s license.
Multiple traffic infractions or major traffic offenses can lead to the suspension or revocation of a motorist driver’s license. Many people cannot accomplish the basic tasks of daily life without on-demand transportation. They need to drive to get their children to school, to take their parents to medical appointments and to get to work.
Some people drive even after the state has suspended or revoked their licenses. If those drivers get caught in the act, they may need help responding assertively. Driving with a suspended or revoked license can lead to very serious legal complications.
What are the potential penalties?
Those who drive after the state suspended or revoked their license are at risk of financial penalties, incarceration and an additional driver’s license suspension. Driving with a suspended or revoked license is a crime, not just a traffic violation.
The state can pursue misdemeanor charges against the accused motorist. They could face up to $2,500 in fines and either at least 10 days in jail or 30 days of community service. The state can also suspend the driver’s license for twice the duration of the prior suspension or revocation.
Those with a prior offense could face Class 4 felony charges. The penalties can include up to $25,000 in fines and 30 days in jail or 300 hours of community service. Penalties and charges are more serious in cases where drivers lose their licenses due to impairment while driving or leaving the scene of a crash.
The best way to avoid the worst-case scenario is to respond assertively after allegations of driving on a suspended or revoked license. An attorney can help people evaluate their circumstances and determine the best response. Lawyers can sometimes help people minimize the penalties they face or avoid a conviction when accused of a traffic offense.
Driving on a suspended or revoked license may seem like a victimless crime, but it can have major consequences for those accused of this relatively serious traffic offense. Motorists can potentially limit the consequences they face when accused of driving without a valid license by seeking legal guidance and responding proactively to pending allegations.
