Charged with Driving on a Suspended or Revoked License in Illinois? Andrew M. Weisberg Can Defend Your Rights

Driving on a suspended or revoked license is a serious offense in Illinois that can lead to significant legal consequences, including fines, extended suspension periods, jail time, and a permanent criminal record. Whether your license was suspended or revoked due to a DUI, unpaid fines, or other violations, the penalties for driving without a valid license are severe. If you are facing charges for driving on a suspended or revoked license in Illinois, it is crucial to have an experienced defense attorney like Andrew M. Weisberg to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.

Understanding Driving on a Suspended or Revoked License Under Illinois Law

Under Illinois law, specifically 625 ILCS 5/6-303, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle while your driver’s license is suspended or revoked. The severity of the charge and the penalties depend on the reason for the suspension or revocation and whether you have prior offenses.

Penalties for Driving on a Suspended or Revoked License in Illinois

The penalties for driving on a suspended or revoked license vary depending on several factors, including the underlying reason for the suspension or revocation and whether it is your first offense.

1. First Offense (Class A Misdemeanor)

• Circumstances: If this is your first time being charged with driving on a suspended or revoked license, and the suspension or revocation was not related to a DUI.
• Penalties:
  • Up to 1 year in jail.
  • Fines of up to $2,500.
  • Mandatory court appearance.
  • Extension of the suspension or revocation period.
  • Possible community service or probation.

2. Driving on a Suspended or Revoked License Due to a DUI (Class A Misdemeanor or Class 4 Felony)

• Circumstances: If your license was suspended or revoked due to a DUI, the penalties are more severe, especially if it’s a repeat offense.
• Penalties:
  • First Offense: Class A misdemeanor with up to 1 year in jail and fines of up to $2,500.
  • Second Offense or Subsequent Offense: Class 4 felony with 1 to 3 years in prison, fines up to $25,000, and mandatory extension of the revocation period.
  • Mandatory Jail Time: If this is your second or subsequent offense, you may face mandatory jail time.

3. Aggravating Circumstances (Class 4 Felony)

• Circumstances: If driving on a suspended or revoked license results in bodily harm, death, or if it occurs in a school zone, or if you have multiple prior offenses, the charge may be elevated to a felony.
• Penalties:
  • 1 to 3 years in prison.
  • Fines of up to $25,000.
  • Mandatory extension of the suspension or revocation period.
  • Possible permanent revocation of your driver’s license.

Consequences of a Conviction for Driving on a Suspended or Revoked License

A conviction for driving on a suspended or revoked license can have significant and lasting consequences:

• Criminal Record: A conviction will result in a permanent criminal record, which can affect your ability to secure employment, housing, and other opportunities.
• License Suspension or Revocation Extension: A conviction will likely result in an extension of the suspension or revocation period, making it even longer before you can legally drive again.
• Increased Penalties for Future Offenses: If you are convicted, any future offenses will carry harsher penalties, including the possibility of felony charges and longer jail or prison sentences.
• Insurance Premiums: A conviction will likely result in higher car insurance premiums, as insurers view this as a sign of risky driving behavior.
• Employment Impact: If your job requires a valid driver’s license, a conviction could result in job loss or difficulty finding employment.

Defending Against Charges of Driving on a Suspended or Revoked License

Successfully defending against charges of driving on a suspended or revoked license requires a strategic and thorough approach. Andrew M. Weisberg will investigate the circumstances of your case, scrutinize the evidence, and develop a defense strategy tailored to your specific situation. Some potential defense strategies may include:

• Lack of Knowledge: If you were not aware that your license was suspended or revoked, this could be a valid defense. For example, if you never received the notice from the Illinois Secretary of State, you might not have known your license was invalid.
• Necessity Defense: In some cases, you may have been driving on a suspended or revoked license due to an emergency, such as needing to get someone to the hospital. This could be used as a mitigating factor in your defense.
• Challenging the Suspension or Revocation: If the original suspension or revocation of your license was unlawful or procedurally flawed, Andrew may argue that the subsequent charge should be dismissed.
• Plea Negotiation: In some cases, negotiating a plea deal for a lesser charge may be the best course of action to minimize the penalties.

Why Choose Andrew M. Weisberg as Your Defense Attorney?

Andrew M. Weisberg is a seasoned criminal defense attorney with extensive experience handling traffic-related offenses, including driving on a suspended or revoked license. His background as a former Cook County prosecutor gives him unique insights into how these cases are built and prosecuted, allowing him to anticipate the prosecution’s strategies and develop a robust defense on your behalf.

When you choose Andrew as your defense attorney, you benefit from:

• Comprehensive Legal Knowledge: Andrew’s deep understanding of Illinois traffic and criminal laws ensures that your case will be handled with the utmost competence and care.
• Aggressive Defense Strategies: Andrew is known for his relentless and proactive defense tactics, exploring every possible angle to protect your rights.
• Personalized Attention: Andrew provides each client with individualized attention, ensuring that your specific circumstances and needs are fully addressed.

The Importance of Early Legal Intervention

If you have been charged with driving on a suspended or revoked license, it is crucial to seek legal representation as soon as possible. Early intervention by a skilled attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Andrew M. Weisberg will take immediate action to protect your rights, gather evidence, and develop a defense strategy tailored to your specific situation.

Andrew M. Weisberg: Committed to Your Defense

Facing charges of driving on a suspended or revoked license can be overwhelming and stressful. Andrew M. Weisberg is committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation throughout the entire process. He will keep you informed at every stage, answer all your questions, and fight tirelessly to protect your rights and future.

Contact the Law Offices of Andrew M. Weisberg Today

If you have been arrested or charged with driving on a suspended or revoked license in Illinois, don’t delay in seeking legal representation. Andrew M. Weisberg is available 24/7 to discuss your case and provide the immediate assistance you need.

Contact Andrew today for a free, confidential consultation:

• Phone: Call (773) 908-9811 anytime, day or night.
• Online: Fill out the Case Review form on our website, and we will get back to you promptly.

Remember, the sooner you have an experienced attorney on your side, the better your chances of achieving a favorable outcome. Let Andrew M. Weisberg put his expertise to work for you.