Driving on a suspended license in Cincinnati, Ohio, is more than just a minor mistake. It can lead to criminal charges and put you on the defendant’s side of the criminal justice system. Law enforcement and prosecutors often treat these charges seriously, so it’s important to make sure you have legal representation with the knowledge and skill to build a successful criminal defense.
If you were caught driving on a suspended license, reach out to Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers for help. Contact our Cincinnati driving on a suspended license lawyers today at (513) 333-0014 to schedule a free consultation.
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Why Hire Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers If You’re Arrested for Driving on a Suspended License in Cincinnati, OH?
When your driving privileges are threatened, and your freedom is on the line, you want a firm that understands the nuances of impaired driving laws and has a proven track record of defending clients against these serious charges. At Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers, we know that driving on a suspended license in Cincinnati, OH, often isn’t just a simple traffic issue.
Here’s why people choose our Cincinnati criminal defense lawyers when the stakes are high:
- Our attorneys bring 100+ years of combined experience to every case
- A legal team that includes former police officers and past state prosecutors
- Recognized achievements such as National Trial Lawyers Top 100, Super Lawyers, and perfect 10.0 Avvo ratings
- We always keep you informed about your case so you’re never left in the dark
You don’t have to deal with a driving on a suspended license charge alone. When you hire our firm, you’re equipping yourself with a team that knows how to fight back. Call us today to schedule a free case consultation with a Cincinnati driving on a suspended license attorney.
Overview of Driving on a Suspended License in Ohio
In Ohio, driving while your license is suspended is taken seriously by law enforcement and courts. State law makes it illegal to operate any motor vehicle if your license has been canceled, suspended, or limited in any way. There are a wide range of reasons you might find yourself with a suspended license in Ohio.
Some of the most common causes include:
- Missing a required court date
- Failing to pay fines, court costs, or child support
- Suffering from a medical condition or disability that’s reported to the BMV
- Receiving an OVI (Operating a Vehicle under the Influence) or DUI conviction
- Being found guilty of crimes like vehicular homicide or manslaughter
- Getting too many points on your driving record from various violations
- Failing the required vision, knowledge, or road skills driving tests
- Being ordered by a court to stop driving
- Ignoring or not satisfying civil penalties tied to traffic regulations
If you continue to drive while your license is suspended for any of these reasons, you risk serious penalties.
What Are the Penalties for Driving on a Suspended License in Cincinnati, Ohio?
The consequences that come with driving on a suspended license in Ohio can be serious and get even harsher with each repeat offense. Penalties also depend on what caused your suspension.
First-Time Offenses
If you’re caught driving with a suspended license for the first time, you’ll likely be charged with a first-degree misdemeanor. This charge can mean up to 180 days in jail and fines reaching $1,000. You’ll usually face an additional license suspension for up to 12 months.
Repeat Violations and Escalating Consequences
Being charged again within three years can lead to more serious consequences. Habitual violations can mean your vehicle might be immobilized (meaning you can’t drive it at all), your license plates seized, or even losing ownership of your car through criminal forfeiture for the most persistent repeat offenders.
Penalties for Driving Under OVI (DUI) Suspension
Getting caught driving while your license is suspended due to an OVI triggers much harsher penalties.
First Offense
For a first offense, you are looking at a mandatory 3 days in jail, up to 6 months, fines between $250 and $1,000, another 12-month suspension, immobilization of your vehicle for 30 days with plate impoundment.
Second Offense (Within 6 Years)
If you’re caught a second time in 6 years, you are looking at a mandatory 10 days in jail, up to 1 year, up to $2,500 in fines, 60 days of car immobilization, and longer suspensions of your license.
Subsequent offenses may lead to even more serious penalties.
What Defenses Can Be Raised If I’m Arrested For Driving on a Suspended License?
Being accused of driving on a suspended license is a more serious situation than many people realize. There are a few common possible defenses that your Cincinnati criminal defense attorney can raise.
License Was Not Suspended
Mistakes sometimes happen at the BMV or court. If records show your license was active or had already been reinstated at the time of your stop, this can fully clear you of the charge.
Operation Did Not Occur
Ohio law requires proof that you were actively driving. Simply sitting in a non-moving, parked vehicle may not meet this standard.
Limited Driving Privileges Were in Effect
If you were following all the terms of a limited driving permit (like driving for work, school, or a medical emergency within set hours and locations), your actions may be completely legal.
This isn’t an exhaustive list of the ways you can defend yourself. If you’re facing charges, reach out to a criminal defense lawyer in Cincinnati right away.
Securing skilled legal help at the start of your case goes a long way in defending yourself and avoiding serious consequences. When you trust Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers to fight for you, you’re working with a skilled team that truly cares about the outcome of your case.
Whether we’re negotiating in court, working to restore your driving privileges, or fighting at trial, we are dedicated to helping you protect your rights and your future. Call us to schedule a free consultation with a Cincinnati driving on a suspended license lawyer today.
