Driver's License Violations Are Worth Fighting in California

Living in California without transportation feels impossible. The public transit system is average, and many people choose to take the risk of driving even when they do not have a valid driving license. The temptation often outweighs the risk of getting caught. If law enforcement pulls you over and you cannot provide a valid license, you will face charges and should hire a professional defense lawyer immediately.

In California, drivers pulled over without a valid license may be arrested, spend time in jail, and pay hefty fines. First-time offenders may consider that a misdemeanor is not that severe. Yet, criminal charges on your record will have significant and long-lasting adverse effects. When facing an arrest for driving without a valid license, the first choice you should make is to contact a local and reputable criminal defense lawyer. Professional law firms will listen to the details, provide guidance and be there to help every step of the way. Whether you're facing an infraction, misdemeanor, or felony charge related to driving, only the most exceptional attorney can get the best possible outcome in a legal case.

Revoked, Suspended, Expired, and Non-Issued License Violations

There are severe legal consequences if caught driving on a revoked or suspended license. The logic is that the suspended status is likely due to previous charges, such as a DUI. An expired license or driving without an issued license may have lesser consequences, but negative consequences, nonetheless.

Revoked and Suspended Licenses

There are several reasons for a revoked or suspended license in California. The Department of Motor Vehicles can revoke or suspend a license for a DUI, other drug-related charges, lack of auto insurance, and road rage cases. Violations fall under California Vehicle Code 14601 and may have devastating consequences on your driving record.

First-time offenders will likely face misdemeanor penalties; however, obtaining professional legal representation by a skilled defense attorney may result in reduced or dismissed charges. Although misdemeanors are less severe than felonies, the results still carry oppressive fines, possible jail time, and overall disruption to life's daily responsibilities at home and work. Spending days and up to six months in jail, accompanied by fines up to $1,000, can be a significant setback for any family.

As with any crime, convictions are can often be more sever if there is a previous record. In California, if the court determines the offenses are habitual, they may permanently revoke driving privileges and initiate vehicle impoundment. Not only is having your car impounded expensive, but it is also a challenging hurdle to overcome without help from an excellent criminal defense attorney.

Expired and Non-Issued License Violations

There are some things to know when you are pulled over with an expired license or no license. Although it seems straightforward, the court system and any charges are not that simple. Asking a criminal defense attorney to be by your side is the wisest decision regardless of your circumstances. Consultation calls are free, and people are amazed how much weight they feel lifted off them after speaking with someone experienced and knowledgeable.

The expired license may fall into two categories. One is those individuals who forget to renew their license, and the other is people who have moved to California and fail to get a valid state license within 20 days. In both cases, an arrest is not certain. These charges are commonly plea bargained or reduced for first-time offenders with the help of a professional attorney.

Driving without an issued driver's license is also a crime in California. In San Diego, teens and adults driving without a driver's license is a criminal traffic crime and will result in jail time and fines. Finding a criminal defense attorney with a proven track record of helping clients in similar license violation cases is essential.

Alternative Sentencing for Traffic Crimes

A skilled defense attorney with experience in traffic infractions knows what alternative sentencing to ask the courts on your behalf, based on your unique circumstances. Criminal defense attorneys have inside knowledge of local courts, compelling defense arguments, and sentencing options. If you are in San Diego and have been convicted of a driver's license offense, reaching out to the best criminal defense attorney is vital. Joni Eisenstein has more than 30 years of experience helping clients fight driver's license violations and other driving-related charges. If you attempt to do this independently, there is a greater risk that you will end up with more severe consequences than necessary. A top-notch traffic criminal defense attorney will always fight for the absolute lowest penalties possible!

Whether plea bargaining or going to trial, having someone with experience winning cases and getting reduced charges is vital to successful outcomes in crimes involving driver's license violations. Knowledge, skill, and experience in fighting these charges, and winning cases, make the difference between walking away and facing severe penalties from the San Diego courts.