License suspensions may be the result of missed court dates, driving offenses, or accumulation of points. License suspensions are often closely related to DUI charges. You can lose your driving privileges if you are found with an illegal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) or if you refuse to submit to a BAC test. Unfortunately, an inability to legally drive makes it very difficult to fulfill certain obligations, such as work and school. While attempting to drive with a suspended license, the consequences for doing so can be harsh.
But what happens if you are charged with driving while suspended? How should you respond to such charges? Read on to begin fighting against your charges.
What are the Penalties for Driving While Suspended?
Although similar, penalties for driving with a suspended license differ slightly in Kansas and Missouri. First offenders in Kansas could be charged with a misdemeanor, facing at least 5 day mandatory jail time up to one year, and a $1,000 maximum fine. In Missouri, a first offense is considered a misdemeanor and penalized by up to a $1,000 fine and up to one year behind bars.
A convicted offender may be charged with a Class D felony after multiple offenses or a sentence can be enhanced because of a DWI or DUI.
What Can I Do after Being Charged?
Being proactive about your charges is the best way to respond. This means that you should act quickly and avoid wasting any time, as your case may be time sensitive. Before you do anything else, get a Kansas City DUI attorney on your side. Their experience and understanding of the law is crucial if you hope to obtain a favorable outcome.
Your attorney can closely examine the details of your case to build a defense that meets your charges head-on. Certain defense strategies may be utilized on your behalf, including:
- Determining whether your charges are the result of a database error
- Questioning whether you were properly notified of the license suspension
- Verifying that you were given the chance for a hearing after the notice of your intended suspension
- Minimizing the criminal and driving consequences
Each case is unique, which is why you need an attorney who avoids cookie-cutter solutions and is instead prepared to craft the distinctive strategy you require. This is what you will find when you retain Steve Schanker, Attorney at Law. Whether you have been charged in Kansas or Missouri, he will work tirelessly to execute successful case results on your behalf.
Don't waste any time – contact his firm today for your free case review and one-on-one legal representation.
