Drivers License Suspension

Lawyer for Drivers License Suspension in Ventura

A drivers license suspension in California can be fought by a criminal defense attorney in Ventura County or Los Angeles County courts. The DMV also plays a significant role in the suspension and a good criminal defense attorney knows how to handle both the court case and the administrative case with the DMV.

The most important thing we look at on a drivers license suspension case is whether the prosecutor and the DMV can prove that you KNEW your license was suspended. They have to prove that you knowing drove with a suspended license. They can prove this by showing that you were verbally told in court, that you signed a paper showing that you knew it, or that you had previously been convicted. If they cannot prove that you knew your license was suspended, we can usually get the charges dropped to a violation of California Vehicle Code 12500, which is simply driving without a license. This can usually involve a simple infraction and a fine, which then allows you to get your license cleared up and get back to driving safely!

Getting Your Driving Privileges Reinstated in California

In Southern California, the ability to drive is critical. Many times your employment depends on you having reliable transportation. When something happens that affects your driving privileges, it is essential to know your rights so that you can get your license reinstated as quickly as possible.

At Ridley Defense, we understand just how frustrating it can be to face a license suspension. Our experienced legal team is here to help walk you through the process and help you restore your driving privileges. We have successfully handled thousands of cases and helped countless clients reinstate their licenses after a suspension.

If your California license was suspended, contact our office at (805) 590-2637 for a complimentary consultation. 

REASONS A LICENSE MAY BE SUSPENDED

There are several reasons why a license may get suspended in California. In order to restore your driving privileges, you will need to review your license suspension order.

Reasons your license may get suspended:

  • Not having insurance
  • Failing to report an accident
  • A conviction for driving under the influence (DUI)
  • Underage drinking
  • Refusing or failing a drug or alcohol test
  • Excessive points
  • Failure to appear in court or pay child support

It is strongly recommended that you consult with an attorney to determine your legal options any time you are dealing with a suspended license.

WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT LICENSE SUSPENSION AND REINSTATEMENT

If your license was suspended, reinstatement is not automatic. You must apply for reinstatement. The steps to restore your driving privileges will differ slightly depending on the reason for the suspension.

LICENSE SUSPENSION RELATED TO DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE (DUI)

A common reason individuals have their driving privileges suspended is due to drunk driving charges. To reinstate your license after a suspension related to driving under the influence, you must follow several steps.

What you will need to apply for reinstatement with the California Department of Motor Vehicles: 

  • Complete a mandatory suspension fee
  • Pay a reissue fee
  • File proof of financial responsibility (SR-22)
  • Complete a DUI treatment program

You may also need to resolve any criminal charges. Depending on the circumstances of the case, you might be able to apply for a restricted license. A restricted license generally allows you to drive to and from school and work, within the course of work, and to and from a DUI treatment program.

Your right to a restricted license may depend on the installation of an ignition interlock device. It is important to discuss when and how to apply for a restricted license with an attorney.

WHAT IF I DRIVE ON A SUSPENDED LICENSE?

It is unlawful to drive on a suspended license. You cannot legally drive until your privileges are reinstated by the Department of Motor Vehicles. Driving on a suspended license can be charged as a misdemeanor offense with serious penalties.

If you were caught driving on a suspended license, our attorneys might be able to help. Contact our office immediately to discuss your case.

WHAT IF MY LICENSE IS REVOKED?

License revocation and suspension are not the same things. A license revocation means that driving privileges have been terminated by the California DMV. In order to restore those privileges, you would have to apply for a new license.

A suspension, on the other hand, is temporary. It allows you to apply for reinstatement after a certain period of time. The length of your suspension depends on the reason your driving privileges were taken away.

FACING A LICENSE SUSPENSION? CONTACT RIDLEY DEFENSE TODAY.

Were your driving privileges recently suspended? Were you arrested for a DUI and served a suspension order? Contact our office at (805) 590-2637 for a complimentary consultation. Attorney Doug Ridley is a former prosecutor, well-versed in handling the most challenging cases. Let the Ridley Defense team help you move forward after an arrest. Call today to get started.

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Whether you need advisement, negotiation, damage control, or aggressive courtroom representation, our caring, compassionate, and tactically brilliant attorneys will fight for you.

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