Louisiana requires all drivers to have a valid license. Out-of-state drivers, as long as they meet age requirements, can still drive in the state if they have a valid out-of-state license. Driving with a suspended license or revoked license is a serious conviction.
Law enforcement must work to keep all drivers safe on the road. If a driver has a suspended license, they should not – under any circumstance – be driving a vehicle. The most common reasons for a license being suspended are that you:
You may also have a license revoked for other offenses, such as criminal convictions or matters where a judge decides to revoke your license.
There are times when a suspension or revoked license should not occur. Drivers have a right to appeal a suspension. Appeals take time and require immediate legal assistance. You won’t be able to appeal the same suspension more than once, so you need to have strong legal counsel to have the best chance of having your license reinstated.
Mistakes happen, and fighting a suspension is a smart choice as a driver. A driver cannot drive even if they’re in the middle of trying to have their license reinstated. The consequences for driving without a valid license are too high and will halt your plans of reinstatement.
New Orleans traffic ticket lawyer Heather C. Ford explains what you can do if you’re not sure why your license is suspended.
Drivers that are caught operating a vehicle with a revoked or suspended license face serious consequences:
You will likely also be cited for additional violations. If you were driving without insurance, this can lead to an even longer suspension.
You’ll also harm your chances of having your license reinstated. Some drivers will be able to receive a restricted license or request early reinstatement of their license. If you can prove that you need to drive for employment, the court may be lenient.
Repeat offenses and incidents of driving with a suspended license can stop potential early reinstatement. It’s best to adhere to your license suspension to avoid extending the suspension even further.
If you’re caught driving without a valid license, you will be ticketed. Most drivers rush to pay their ticket out of fear that they’ll be in worse trouble if they don’t make payment. Paying for a ticket is an admission of guilt. If you pay a ticket that has a driving while suspended charge, your license will be suspended for an additional year.
Hiring an attorney to help deal with the ticket and the fact that you operated a vehicle with a suspended license is your best option.
Not fighting to ticket and admitting guilt will result in the penalties outlined in the previous section:
Your next option is to call an attorney. An attorney will work to keep you out of jail and may be able to have the charges against you dismissed.
Driving with a suspended license is a serious accusation that can lead to possible jail time, penalties, fines, and extended loss of your license. If you’re found guilty of these charges, you may have difficulty retaining employment or even obtaining insurance when your suspension is over.
A Louisiana attorney specializing in traffic law and suspended licenses can help you have charges lowered or possibly dismissed.
Due to the severity of the allegation, extended suspension time, and potential for hefty fines and jail time, it’s important to contact an attorney immediately.
The Law Office of Heather C. Ford will give you peace of mind about your ticket for driving with a suspended license. She will professionally and effectively represent you on your behalf in front of any prosecutors or judges. Trust that your case will be handled with your best interests in mind. Text us a copy of your traffic tickets or request a free consultation to start building your defense.
Serving New Orleans and surrounding area — We solve traffic problems
From a speeding ticket to a long term suspended license, we can help you. We are committed to making the legal process as quick and efficient as possible for every client. If you have received a ticket for driving with a suspended license or any other traffic violation — Contact our office immediately to schedule a consultation.
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Between myself and my family, we keep Heather busy! She is very professional and knowledgeable. I have spent a lot of money and ruined my driving record paying off speeding tickets but when I found Heather, I found that she is the best
My experience with the Law Office of Heather C. Ford was outstanding. I would recommend this team to anyone that has received a traffic ticket in the metro New Orleans area....
I found Heather online after searching for a traffic lawyer. Since I am not from the area, I was not 100% sure but went with my gut after reading the positive comments. And I was right! I am really pleased with Heather Ford's...
I was thrilled when Heather was able to get my ticket reduced to a non-moving violation and the judge waived fees. I never thought that was possible. I was certain I'd have to pay something. She's great...
Ms. Ford is all that I could ask for in an advocate.
My experience has been as pleasurable as can be expected when you need a lawyer.
If you are found to be driving with a suspended license, you will likely be facing misdemeanor charges. These charges could result in jail time, fines, and the further suspension or revocation of your license.
In Louisiana, the fines for driving with a suspended license could range from $300 to $5,000 depending on what class license you have.
Yes, your insurance company will be made aware of your suspended license when they review your driving record. This will result in higher insurance costs and you may need to sign a document stating you are not currently using your vehicle due to the suspended license.
