Driving on a suspended or revoked license, also known as “Driving Under Suspension” (DUS) is a criminal offense that involves operating a motor vehicle while a person’s driver’s license is suspended or revoked by the state.
The specific laws and definitions of DUS vary depending on the jurisdiction, but some common elements include:
Operating a vehicle: The crime involves operating a motor vehicle, including cars, trucks, motorcycles, and boats.
Suspended or revoked license: The perpetrator must have had their driver’s license suspended or revoked by the state. This can happen for a variety of reasons, such as accumulating too many traffic violations, failing to pay fines, or DUI/DWI convictions.
Punishment: Punishment for DUS typically includes fines, short-term imprisonment, additional suspension or revocation of the driver’s license, and mandatory completion of a drug or alcohol treatment program. Repeat offenders face harsher penalties, such as longer imprisonment, higher fines, and longer driver’s license suspension or revocation.
Civil Consequences: a DUS conviction may not result in the loss of civil rights, but it still will be a criminal record that might have an impact on the individual’s life in certain areas such as employment, housing, or professional licenses.
It’s worth noting that laws and regulations regarding DUS vary by jurisdiction, and it is always advisable to check the specific laws of your area. Additionally, an attorney can help advise on the specifics of the charges and penalties that may apply in a particular case.
Legal Penalties for Driving on a Suspended or Revoked License
The penalties for driving on a suspended or revoked license vary depending on the state in which the offense occurs and the specific circumstances of the case. In general, first-time offenses can result in fines, additional license suspension or revocation, and/or jail time. Repeated offenses can result in harsher penalties, including longer jail sentences. It’s important to note that driving on a suspended or revoked license can also result in increased insurance rates and can have a negative impact on a person’s ability to find employment.