Did you know that in DC your driver’s license can be suspended for issues not related to driving? One example is failing to pay child support. Other examples of incidents or offenses that can jeopardize you DC driver’s license include:
If your license has already been suspended, you may wonder what – if any – options remain. Of course you can wait out the suspension, though this may put your job or ability to care for your personal needs and your family at great risk. A DC traffic lawyer who is well-versed in this area of law can petition for you to be granted a restricted license, which limits your driving privileges to crucial tasks – such as getting to work, school, doctor’s appointments, and other medical services. This is typically known as a limited occupational license. In DC, this request must include a letter from your employer (on company letterhead) that confirms you need your driver license to get to work, conduct business, and maintain your livelihood.
Other options for getting your license reinstated depend upon the reason for the suspension or revocation. Here are a few examples:
To find out if you would likely qualify for an occupational license, or if you will need to have your license reinstated, you should speak with a DC criminal defense attorney who is familiar with traffic law.
Waiting until your driver license is valid or reinstated can take a long time. However, the penalties can soar if you’re caught driving with a suspended license. According to DC Code 50-1403.01(e), the fine can range up $5,000, and also run the very real risk of up to one year in jail. In addition, your license will likely be suspended for an even greater length of time, and such charges can cause your motor vehicle insurance premiums to spike or cause your carrier to drop your insurance altogether.
Given the seriousness of the potential penalties, it should be clear that you will require the services of a dedicated DC traffic attorney, one who has litigated numerous cases involving allegations of driving with a suspended license and who can work to undermine the case against you. If a conviction is inevitable, your attorney will be best-suited to mitigate the potential penalties. Your attorney can also help you if you’ve already lost your driving privilege and are looking to appeal the matter. Learn more about how a traffic lawyer can help here.
It’s also important to understand the status of your license. If you’re in any way unsure, it would be smart to call the Department of Motor Vehicles to confirm that your license is current.
David Benowitz and his firm are the best strategic and compassionate teams you will work with. Mr. Benowitz and his team are diligent and proactive, which is further enhanced by David’s methodic and strategic approach to law. My case was a very complicated and emotionally charged case involving classified information, where I was facing three indictments, two carrying life sentences and one carrying 20 years. Mr. Benowitz utilized a network of lawyers coupled with his own strategy to navigate the case to success! I sincerely recommend David Benowitz quite literally with my life.
I found David to be very dedicated to fighting for your loved one’s rights. I also highly appreciated the fact that David kept us informed and empowered throughout the whole process.
Mr. Benowitz is an incredibly knowledgeable and dedicated professional. His commitments to social justice and community outreach are exemplary. I wholeheartedly recommend him for any matter.