You appear in traffic court after getting a ticket. The judge asks you about any driving violations you had before your current violation. You admit to several — your hearing ends with your driver’s license suspended.
When you ask the judge how you are going to get to work, he tells you that you should have thought of that before.
These violations can mean a suspended driver’s license:
Holding a driver’s license and driving are privileges. They can be taken away from you if you commit too many driving offenses. These include:
- Drag racing
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Road rage — assaulting another driver as you are behind the wheel
- Hit-and-run
Other reasons for suspending your driver’s license:
- Being convicted of a drug offense not involving alcohol
- Not paying your child support
- Truancy
- Not appearing in court for a moving violation
- Juvenile delinquency
Legal consequences for driving without a license
If you get behind the wheel and drive without having a driver’s license, the police can stop you. Your consequences could be even more serious than losing your driving privileges:
- Heavy court fines and fees
- Depending on how many offenses you have, you could spend up to 90 days in jail
- Revocation of your license plate
The court will keep your offense in mind if you have other cases pending, such as an immigration or family law issue. The judge will hold your offense against you, which can risk your ability to stay in this country or get child custody.
Some options to consider if your license is about to be suspended
You will have to pay any unpaid debts, such as child support. If you were convicted of DUI, you might have to get an ignition interlock device.
You may be able to petition for a hardship license. This limits your driving to specific reasons, such as going to the doctor and work. It may be worth your while to get legal support before being forced to cope with the ramifications of a lost license.
