Ricardo Alvarez P.A.

Driving While Under License Suspension Defense Lawyer

Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney in Lakeland, FL - Ricardo Alvarez offers aggressive legal services for alleged license suspension crimes. Contact License Suspension Crime Defense Attorney Ricardo Alvarez Today!


Lawyer, Ricardo Alvarez

Call 863.709.0808 about your Driving Under License Suspension Criminal Defense legal needs in Lakeland, Polk County, and Central Florida.

In today's world, we all know that driving has become a necessity in our everyday lives. The law defines a the ability to drive in a different way. Under the law, driving is a privilege that can be taken away through license suspension or revocation. The term of license suspension can be temporary or even permanently, based on driving history, if the person has been labeled as a habitual offender by the court, or if the suspension or revocation is due to specific criminal actions.

Most people do not work within walking distance of work, and may find it difficult to get to work every day using the public bus system. So having a suspended license can sometimes lead to a person loosing his or her job.

There are various reasons that a persons drivers license can be suspended or revoked:

It is important to note that Driving While under License Suspension or Revocation is a Criminal Offense, and may include a period of incarceration if found guilty.

If you have been charged with Driving While Under License Suspension, you need an attorney on your side who is knowledgeable of the law, experienced at trial, and able to negotiate for you from a position of strength. Call our law office 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 863.709.0808, or by using our online case evaluation form.

We stand ready to aggressively represent you, and answer all of your questions. An aggressive defense of your Driving While Under License Suspension case in the early stages could lead to the traffic violation against you being dismissed or reduced.

CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY SERVING LAKELAND, WINTER HAVEN, BARTOW, POLK COUNTY, AND CENTRAL FLORIDA

Contact Driving Under License Suspension Defense Lawyer, Ricardo Alvarez today at 863.709.0808





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ATTORNEY, RICARDO ALVAREZ
BIOGRAPHY

Attorney, Ricardo Alvarez

Ricardo Alvarez is a Criminal Defense Attorney who serves the Lakeland, Winter Haven, Bartow, Polk County, Hardee County, Highlands County, Hillsborough County and Central Florida areas.

Attorney, Ricardo Alvarez handles local, state and federal criminal cases.

Mr. Alvarez is a former prosecutor for the 10th Judicial Circuit of Florida, whichh covers Hardee, Highlands, and Polk Counties.

Attorney, Ricardo Alvarez was also former producer, news director, and vice president of news & Sports for Telemundo in New York, NY, and was also a producer and executive producer for Univision in New York, NY and San Fransisco, CA.

RICARDO ALVAREZ - BIOGRAPHY › › ›



CRIMINAL LAW
AREAS OF LEGAL PRACTICE

Contact Attorney, Ricardo Alvarez

Criminal DefenseDUI DefenseDrug ChargesFelonyMisdemeanorArsonAssaultBatteryBurglaryRobberyTheftTraffic CrimesTraffic TicketDriving Under License SuspensionDomestic Violence DefenseDomestic Injunction ViolationsFraud CrimesHomicide CrimesJuvenile Offender DefenseSealing and ExpungementSex CrimesViolation of Probation DefenseWeapon - Firearm Charge DefenseWhite Collar Crime Defense


CONTACT THE LAW OFFICE OF RICARDO ALVAREZ, P.A. › › ›



ATTORNEY, RICARDO ALVAREZ
BIOGRAPHY

Attorney, Ricardo Alvarez

Ricardo Alvarez is a Criminal Defense Attorney who serves the Lakeland, Winter Haven, Bartow, Polk County, Hardee County, Highlands County, Hillsborough County and Central Florida areas.

Attorney, Ricardo Alvarez handles local, state and federal criminal cases.

Mr. Alvarez is a former prosecutor for the 10th Judicial Circuit of Florida, whichh covers Hardee, Highlands, and Polk Counties.

Attorney, Ricardo Alvarez was also former producer, news director, and vice president of news & Sports for Telemundo in New York, NY, and was also a producer and executive producer for Univision in New York, NY and San Fransisco, CA.

RICARDO ALVAREZ - BIOGRAPHY › › ›


What is the difference between a suspended and revoked driver's license in Florida?

In Florida, the key difference between a suspended and revoked driver's license lies in the duration and reasons for the loss of driving privileges. A suspended license means that your driving privileges are temporarily on hold, typically due to specific violations, such as unpaid traffic tickets, failure to appear in court, or driving under the influence (DUI). The suspension has an end date, and once you satisfy the requirements and pay any necessary fees, you can typically reinstate your license.

On the other hand, a revoked license in Florida is a more severe penalty. It means your driving privileges have been canceled, and there is no automatic right to get your license back. Revocations often result from more serious offenses, such as multiple DUI convictions or being deemed a habitual traffic offender. To reinstate a revoked license, you may need to wait a specified period, complete additional requirements like DUI school or drug treatment, and demonstrate your fitness to drive. The process for reinstating a revoked license can be more complex and time-consuming than for a suspended license. It's essential to consult with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) or an attorney to understand the specific requirements for your situation.


What are the potential penalties for driving with a suspended license in Florida?

Driving with a suspended license in Florida can result in various penalties depending on the circumstances. For a first offense, it's typically considered a misdemeanor, and penalties may include fines of up to $500 and potential imprisonment for up to 60 days. However, if the license was suspended due to certain DUI-related or habitual traffic offender convictions, the penalties can be more severe, including higher fines, longer jail sentences, and mandatory impoundment of the vehicle. Subsequent offenses can lead to increased fines, longer license suspensions, and even felony charges in some cases, particularly if there are prior convictions for driving with a suspended license. Additionally, a conviction for this offense may lead to an extended period of license suspension, making it crucial to address the underlying issues and resolve the suspension before attempting to reinstate your driving privileges. Consulting with an attorney experienced in traffic law can help you understand your specific situation and potential consequences.


Can I contest a DWLS charge in Florida, and how do I do it?

Yes, you can contest a Driving While License Suspended (DWLS) charge in Florida. To contest the charge, it's advisable to seek legal representation from a qualified attorney experienced in traffic law. Your attorney can assess the details of your case, evaluate the circumstances of your license suspension, and identify potential defenses. Common defenses may include challenging the legality of the initial traffic stop, verifying that your license was not suspended at the time of the offense, or arguing that you were not aware of the suspension due to a lack of notice from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV). Your attorney will work to gather evidence, negotiate with the prosecution, and represent your interests in court. Keep in mind that the specific defense strategy may vary depending on the unique facts of your case, so consulting with an attorney is essential to protect your rights and improve your chances of a favorable outcome.


Is there a difference between a first offense and subsequent DWLS offenses in Florida?

Yes, there is a significant difference between a first offense and subsequent Driving While License Suspended (DWLS) offenses in Florida. For a first offense, DWLS is typically considered a misdemeanor, resulting in potential penalties such as fines, probation, and up to 60 days in jail. However, for subsequent offenses, the penalties become more severe. A second offense within five years of the first can result in increased fines, a longer suspension of your driver's license, and mandatory impoundment of your vehicle. A third or subsequent offense may be charged as a felony, leading to even harsher consequences, including significant fines, longer imprisonment, and the possibility of losing your driving privileges for an extended period. Given the escalating penalties, it is crucial to address any underlying issues leading to license suspensions and to consult with an attorney experienced in traffic law to understand the potential consequences and explore your defense options.


Can I get a hardship or restricted license after a suspension in Florida?

In Florida, you may be eligible to apply for a hardship or restricted license under certain circumstances after your driver's license has been suspended. A hardship license typically allows you to drive to essential locations such as work, school, medical appointments, and grocery stores during specific hours. To obtain a hardship license, you must meet specific criteria and complete requirements such as completing a DUI school if your suspension was related to DUI or attending a traffic school for certain offenses. However, not all suspensions are eligible for a hardship license, and the process can be complex, so it's advisable to consult with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) or an attorney to determine your eligibility and navigate the application process.


Will a DWLS conviction lead to further suspension or revocation of my license?

Yes, a conviction for Driving While License Suspended (DWLS) in Florida can lead to further suspension or revocation of your driver's license. The length of the additional suspension or revocation can vary depending on the circumstances of your case and whether it's a first offense or a subsequent offense. If you accumulate multiple DWLS convictions, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) may designate you as a Habitual Traffic Offender (HTO), resulting in a five-year revocation of your driver's license. It's essential to address the underlying issues causing your license suspensions and seek legal advice to avoid further consequences and work towards reinstating your driving privileges.


Can a DWLS Charge be dismissed in Florida if it is proven that the reason you were driving was a justified emergency such as taking a loved one to the hospital emergency room?

In Florida, a Driving While License Suspended (DWLS) charge may potentially be dismissed or result in a more favorable outcome if you can demonstrate that you were driving out of necessity due to a justified emergency, such as taking a loved one to the hospital emergency room. Courts may consider the concept of necessity as a defense in certain situations where there was a legitimate and immediate need to drive despite a license suspension. However, the success of this defense depends on the specific circumstances of the case and the judge's discretion. It's crucial to consult with an experienced attorney to assess the viability of this defense strategy and advocate on your behalf to present a compelling argument in court.


How can I check the status of my driver's license in Florida?

To check the status of your driver's license in Florida, you can visit the official website of the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV). They offer an online service called "Check Your Driver License Status" that allows you to verify your license status, see if it's valid, suspended, revoked, or has any restrictions. You'll need to enter your driver's license number and personal information to access this service. Alternatively, you can contact the DHSMV by phone or visit a local DHSMV office for in-person assistance and information regarding your driver's license status.


Are there any alternatives to jail time for DWLS offenders in Florida?

Yes, in Florida, there are alternatives to jail time for Driving While License Suspended (DWLS) offenders. Some of these alternatives may include probation, community service, or participation in driver improvement programs. The availability of alternatives can depend on various factors, such as the specific circumstances of the DWLS case, the reason for the license suspension, and prior criminal history. Additionally, successfully addressing the underlying issues that led to the license suspension, such as paying outstanding fines or resolving legal matters, can improve your chances of securing a more favorable outcome. Consulting with an experienced attorney is essential to explore these alternatives and navigate the legal process effectively, potentially avoiding incarceration while working towards reinstating your driving privileges.


Contact Domestic Violence Criminal Defense Lawyer, Ricardo Alvarez today at 863.709.0808



Ricardo Alvarez P.A.

6700 Florida Ave S, Lakeland, FL 33813

Phone: 863.709.0808






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Attorney, Ricardo Alvarez | 863.709.0808