Driving While License Suspended, also known as DWLS, is a serious charge in Florida. DWLS is a very common charge, impacting many people across the Tampa Bay area every year. Recently Tampa criminal defense attorney Barry Taracks, senior partner at Taracks & Associates, sat down with us to discuss how DWLS can have a serious impact on your life.
“Were you stopped and cited for Driving While License Suspended, or DWLS? If so, you should call an experienced Tampa Traffic Offenses/Criminal Defense Lawyer today to review your options. Whether you were driving while your license was suspended, revoked, or canceled, the steps you take today to address your legal issues can greatly impact the outcome of your case, especially if you act swiftly.” Mr. Taracks began.
“There are several key factors that determine just how serious a DWLS ticket is in your particular case. If it is your first offense, and you were unknowingly driving with a suspended license, it is a civil misdemeanor. If you are found guilty of knowingly driving your car, truck, or SUV on a suspended license, it becomes much more serious and you can face up to sixty days in jail and up to a $500 fine. What’s worse is if it is a second or third offense, the jail time increases dramatically and you may even be charged with a felony.”
Aside from just jail time and fines, there are several other factors you must consider. “DWLS can lead to other penalties as well. For instance, you could be labeled a HTO, or Habitual Traffic Offender, causing you to lose your license for five years. Your auto insurance rates will likely skyrocket and could even be canceled. Additionally, if you are charged with a felony it will remain on your record, making it very difficult to find gainful employment.”
“If you have received a ticket for Driving While License Suspended you should immediately consult with an experienced Tampa Traffic Offenses/Criminal Defense Lawyer to review your case. The steps you take to address your ticket can greatly impact the outcome, especially if you act quickly in most cases. Call us today for a free consultation – 813-281-2897. Our legal team would be happy to evaluate your case and help you to understand the options you have available.”
Taracks & Associates – The Advocate For You.