Understanding Driving with a Suspended License in Maryland

Driving with a suspended license in Maryland is a serious offense that can have significant legal consequences. The state takes this violation seriously due to the potential risks it poses to public safety. For individuals charged with this offense, navigating the legal system can be overwhelming and daunting. Alpert Schreyer, LLC is dedicated to providing comprehensive legal support and representation to those facing such charges, ensuring their rights are protected and their cases are handled with the utmost diligence.

The Legal Implications of Driving with a Suspended License

In Maryland, driving with a suspended license is not merely a traffic violation; it is considered a misdemeanor criminal offense. This means that individuals convicted of this charge can face severe penalties, including substantial fines, potential jail time, and an extended period of license suspension. The rationale behind these stringent penalties is to deter drivers from ignoring the law and to promote safer driving practices on the road.

When a driver’s license is suspended, it could be due to a variety of reasons, including accumulated points from traffic violations, failure to appear in court, failure to pay fines, or more serious offenses like driving under the influence. Once a license is suspended, the individual is legally prohibited from operating a motor vehicle until the suspension is lifted. Violating this prohibition leads to the charge of driving with a suspended license.

Potential Consequences and Penalties

The consequences for driving with a suspended license can vary based on several factors, including the underlying reason for the suspension, the driver’s prior criminal record, and whether the individual was aware of the suspension. Penalties can include fines ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars, incarceration for up to one year, and additional suspension of driving privileges. Furthermore, a conviction can lead to increased insurance premiums, difficulty finding employment, and a permanent criminal record, which can have long-lasting impacts on various aspects of an individual’s life.

Andrew D. Alpert

Founding Partner

Michael J. Schreyer

Founding Partner

Michael Berman

Attorney

Jason Miller

Attorney

The Importance of Legal Representation

Given the severity of the penalties associated with driving with a suspended license, securing legal representation is crucial. Alpert Schreyer, LLC understands the intricacies of Maryland traffic laws and the criminal justice system. Our attorneys have extensive experience in handling cases involving suspended licenses and are well-versed in the defenses that can be employed to mitigate the charges or have them dismissed altogether.

Common Defenses for Driving with a Suspended License

Several defenses can be utilized to challenge a charge of driving with a suspended license. One of the most common defenses is the lack of knowledge defense. This applies when the defendant was genuinely unaware that their license had been suspended. For example, if the suspension notice was sent to an incorrect address or if the individual never received the notice due to administrative errors, this defense can be effective.

Another potential defense is challenging the legality of the traffic stop that led to the discovery of the suspended license. If the stop was conducted without probable cause or violated the individual’s constitutional rights, any evidence obtained during the stop, including the fact that the license was suspended, may be inadmissible in court.

Additionally, there may be extenuating circumstances that can be presented to the court to seek leniency. For instance, if the individual was driving due to a genuine emergency, this could be used to argue for reduced penalties or an alternative sentence.

Attorneys Alpert, Berman, and their staff help guide those of us caught up in circumstances that are ultimately under our control … first, by pointing out how to regain some control, then by guiding us so we never have to deal with such situations again (using our own self-determination). I am very happy with my outcome. Andrew Alpert contributes to the field of knowledge and contemporary practice standards based on science. This team is definitely worth it! They worked closely with me, gave me honest and sensible advice, and they really secured a good outcome for me. Highly recommended.”

- Raja S

Navigating the Legal Process

The legal process for a charge of driving with a suspended license begins with an arrest or citation. The individual will then be required to appear in court, where the prosecution will present its case. This is where having legal representation becomes invaluable. At Alpert Schreyer, LLC, our attorneys work diligently to investigate the circumstances surrounding the charge, gather evidence, and develop a robust defense strategy tailored to the specific facts of the case.

Our approach includes thoroughly reviewing the details of the license suspension, the conduct of the arresting officers, and any potential procedural errors that may have occurred. We also advocate for our clients’ rights throughout the legal proceedings, ensuring they understand each step of the process and their options moving forward.

The Role of Alpert Schreyer, LLC

At Alpert Schreyer, LLC, we are committed to providing personalized and aggressive representation for our clients. Our firm’s extensive experience in criminal defense and traffic law allows us to offer a strategic advantage in these cases. We recognize that each case is unique, and we take the time to understand the specific circumstances and concerns of our clients.

Our attorneys work closely with clients to build a strong defense, whether it involves negotiating with prosecutors for a favorable plea deal or taking the case to trial. We are dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome, whether that means having the charges reduced, penalties minimized, or the case dismissed altogether.

Verdicts & Settlements

DUI

All Charges Dropped

Found in his parked car with a friend and some open bottles, our client was facing a fourth DUI offense, along with 3 years of prison time and 2 more for probation violation. We didn’t back down in court, and the state dropped all charges after a short recess. Our client did not receive jail time, points, or probation – and he only paid a $50 fine.

DUI

Probationary Deal on a Second Offense

Our client had a .18 BAC in a notoriously heavy-handed jurisdiction, Harford County, where people can easily do 60 days active time on a second offense. Our firm negotiated a plea deal for our client that achieved no conviction, no points, and no jail. The Judge was incredibly impressed with the mitigation package we presented on behalf of client, who was very pleased with the results.

DUI

No Jail Sentence

Our firm secured a no-jail sentence for our client from a very tough Judge in Frederick County. Our client blew a .20 on a third offense, and the prosecutor was asking for active jail time. The Judge said the mitigation package we devised for the client made all the difference and led him to ignore the prosecutor’s jail recommendation in favor of just probation.

DUI

Charge Reduced

One of our DUI clients was facing up to 1 year in jail if convicted, plus $1000 in fines, 12 points on her driving record, and 3 years of supervised probation. By negotiating with the prosecution, we were able to secure a much better result. Our client did not receive a conviction, points, or jail time – instead, she paid only a few hundred dollars and received 1 year of unsupervised probation.

DUI

Not Guilty

After his fifth DUI charge, our client was facing up to 3 years in prison for a conviction. By showing that the field sobriety test result was affected by the client’s disability, our defense attorneys were able to secure a “not guilty” verdict on all counts, after the jury deliberated for only 12 minutes.

DUI

Probationary Deal on 6th Offense

After being arrested for their sixth DUI, our client faced 3 years in jail, up to $3,000 in fines, and a system inclined to award maximum penalties to repeat offenders. Our team managed to secure a probationary deal with no jail time for this client.

View More Results

Seeking a Favorable Outcome

Securing a favorable outcome in a driving with a suspended license case often requires a combination of legal experience, meticulous preparation, and persuasive advocacy. At Alpert Schreyer, LLC, we understand the importance of each of these elements. Our team is proficient in presenting compelling arguments and evidence to the court, highlighting any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and emphasizing any mitigating factors that support our client’s position.

We also explore all possible avenues for resolving the case, including alternative sentencing options such as probation, community service, or participation in a driver improvement program. Our goal is to minimize the impact of the charges on our clients’ lives and to help them move forward with as little disruption as possible.

The Benefits of Choosing Alpert Schreyer, LLC

Choosing the right legal representation can make a significant difference in the outcome of a driving with a suspended license case. At Alpert Schreyer, LLC, our clients benefit from our deep understanding of Maryland’s traffic laws, our comprehensive approach to defense, and our unwavering commitment to their best interests. We take pride in our ability to navigate complex legal challenges and to provide the support and guidance our clients need during difficult times.

Our firm’s reputation for excellence is built on our track record of success and our dedication to client service. We believe in transparent communication, keeping our clients informed and involved throughout the legal process. This collaborative approach ensures that our clients are empowered to make informed decisions about their cases and their futures.

Moving Forward After a Suspension Charge

Facing a charge of driving with a suspended license can be a stressful and uncertain experience. However, with the right legal representation, it is possible to navigate this challenge successfully. Alpert Schreyer, LLC is here to provide the support and advocacy needed to achieve a positive outcome. Our attorneys are committed to fighting for our clients’ rights and to helping them overcome the obstacles they face.

If you or someone you know is dealing with a driving with a suspended license charge in Maryland, do not hesitate to seek legal assistance. The consequences of a conviction can be far-reaching, but with the right defense strategy, you can protect your future and your driving privileges.

At Alpert Schreyer, LLC, we understand the serious nature of driving with a suspended license charges and are dedicated to providing the highest level of legal representation. Our experienced attorneys are ready to help you navigate the legal system and to fight for the best possible outcome in your case.

If you are facing charges of driving with a suspended license in Maryland, contact Alpert Schreyer, LLC today. Our team is here to provide the support, guidance, and defense you need. Reach out to us to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward protecting your rights and your future. Let us help you overcome this challenge and move forward with confidence.