A suspended license charge can be a traffic ticket or a criminal charge. The difference usually comes down to one question: did you know your license was suspended?
Why does knowing about the suspension matter?
If you did not know, the offense is generally a moving violation handled like a ticket. If the State can show you knew, it becomes a second-degree misdemeanor for a first offense, and a first-degree misdemeanor after that. The State usually shows knowledge through a prior citation, your own admission, or a notice mailed to your address on record. That presumption can be challenged, and notices mailed to an old address are one of the most common problems in these cases.
When does a suspended license charge get more serious?
A third or later conviction carries a minimum of 10 days in jail. If the most recent conviction involved a suspension tied to a DUI, a test refusal, or a crash causing death or serious injury, a third or later offense can be a felony. Habitual traffic offender status brings felony exposure too.
What if the suspension came from unpaid fines or child support?
Many suspensions come from unpaid court costs, child support or lapsed insurance. Florida treats those somewhat more gently, with reduced penalties in some of those situations. Even so, a conviction adds a new record, a longer suspension and new costs.
What do I look at in a suspended license case?
Was the suspension valid? Was the notice properly mailed? Was the stop lawful? Can the underlying issue be cleared so the case can be resolved, and can you get a valid license back? Getting your license reinstated is often part of ending the case, not an afterthought.
If you have been charged in Hillsborough, Pinellas or Pasco, call me at (813) 228-6001.
The consultation is free.
Common questions
Is the consultation free?
Yes. Call me at (813) 228-6001 and we can talk about the charge and what comes next. The consultation is free.
Should I talk to the police or the prosecutor before I call you?
No. Anything you say can be used in the case. It is easier to help you before a statement is made than after, so call me first.
What should I bring to the consultation?
Bring whatever paperwork you have: the arrest or charging papers, any bond or release papers, notices of court dates, and any letters from the court or the state. If you don’t have them yet, call anyway and we will sort out what is missing.
This page is general information, not legal advice. Reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every case is different. Past outcomes do not guarantee a similar result.
The law (short version): Fla. Stat. 322.34; 322.27 (habitual traffic offender).
The Law Office of Adam B. Landeen, PA
2511 W. Columbus Dr., Tampa, FL 33607
(813) 228-6001
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