What Are the Penalties of Driving on a Suspended Driver’s License?

 Posted on September 16, 2020 in Traffic Tickets

The state of Illinois takes traffic violations seriously, since disobeying traffic laws can lead to car accidents with injuries. Certain infractions can result in criminal charges, and a motorist losing his or her driving privileges for a period of time. This can cause great hardship if a person relies on driving to get to and from work to support his or her family. Depending on the offense, an individual may be able to obtain an occupational license, which allows him or her to drive to designated places at specific times for employment or school. However, if a driver operates his or her vehicle on a suspended or revoked license, the penalties can be steep. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help defend against these serious charges.

Reasons for Suspension or Revocation

In Illinois, after a conviction for a traffic violation, points are added to a motorist’s driving record, with the number of points varying according to the severity of the offense. Multiple violations can result in the suspension of driving privileges. A few of the most common traffic offenses that can warrant a license suspension or revocation.

• Driving under the influence (DUI)
• Failure to attend court hearings
• Lapsed auto insurance
• Multiple moving violations
• Unpaid traffic or parking tickets
• Other administrative suspensions

Illinois Punishment

Driving while your license is suspended is a criminal offense in Illinois. A first-time conviction of driving on a suspended or revoked license can put a driver in jail for 10 days, or he or she may be ordered to perform 30 days of community service.

Depending on the circumstances, an offender may be charged with a petty offense, which carries a $500 maximum fine. An individual can also receive a Class A misdemeanor, which can carry penalties up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. In some cases, a felony can be charged for a subsequent offense of driving on a revoked license, or one that was due to reckless homicide. Felony convictions can result in 1-15 years in prison and fines up to $25,000.

Contact a Cook County Criminal Defense Lawyer

Although many people may not think that traffic offenses are that serious, too many traffic tickets or violations can have a direct impact on a family’s livelihood. If you or your loved one is facing a driver’s license suspension, it is important to have skilled legal representation. At Luisi Legal Group, we have more than 15 years of legal experience, so we understand Illinois criminal laws pertaining to driving privileges. Our proficient Chicago traffic violations attorneys believe everyone is entitled to a second chance. To arrange your free consultation, call us today at 773-276-5541.

Source:

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/documents/062500050K6-303.htm