Driving with a suspended license in Washington State is a traffic-related crime with serious legal consequences.
Licenses may be suspended for various reasons, including failure to pay fines, DUI convictions, reckless driving, or accumulating too many traffic violations. Each reason for suspension may have its process for reinstating driving privileges.
Degrees of License Suspension in WA
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First-Degree Suspension
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- This is the most serious and typically applies to drivers whose licenses have been suspended for felony offenses. It is a gross misdemeanor, punishable by up to 364 days in jail and fines up to $5,000. This level of suspension often involves drivers with a history of severe driving infractions.
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Second-Degree Suspension
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- This occurs when a license is suspended for reasons such as unpaid child support or a prior DUI conviction. It is also a gross misdemeanor with similar potential penalties, but defenses may be available depending on the reason for the suspension. Convictions at this level may also lead to longer license suspension periods and higher fines.
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Third-Degree Suspension
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- This is the least severe and is frequently associated with administrative suspensions, such as failure to pay traffic fines. It is still a misdemeanor, but the punishments are less severe, such as shorter jail terms and lesser fines. Individuals facing this level of suspension may be able to negotiate a reduced punishment if they manage the underlying reason for the suspension.
Consequences of Driving with a Suspended License
If you get caught driving with a suspended license in Washington State, you could face more severe penalties, including prolonged suspension periods and jail time.
Obtain legal assistance immediately if you’re facing these charges. A defense attorney may be able to argue for reduced penalties or negotiate alternatives to jail time.
In rare cases, a defense attorney may be able to establish that the driver was unaware of the ban, which could be a valid defense.
How to Reinstate a Suspended License in WA
Individuals must comply with specific requirements to reinstate a suspended license, including paying outstanding fines, attending court hearings, or completing driving courses.
For some suspensions, individuals must provide proof of insurance (SR-22) and pay a reinstatement fee to the Department of Licensing (DOL).
Each suspension has unique requirements for reinstatement, so it’s crucial to understand the specific cause of the suspension.
Get Help with a Suspended License Case in WA
If you’ve been charged with driving with a suspended license, contact Philip Wakefield of Snohomish Law Group. He can provide legal support to help you resolve your license issues and work toward a favorable outcome.
Whether you’re facing a first-, second-, or third-degree suspension, having a skilled attorney makes a substantial difference.
