Driving Under Suspension
Driving is an integral part of our everyday life, so it’s easy to forget the act is a right, not a privilege. When this right is suspended, you will have a difficult time getting to work, school or completing daily tasks.
There are many reasons why a driver’s license would be suspended. The most common is a conviction of operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs (OVI). For many people, it’s imperative they drive so they can pay their bills and support their families. If you are caught driving while your license is under suspension, you could face an extended suspension and other harsh penalties.
Columbus, OH Driving Under Suspension Defense Lawyer
The attorneys at Joslyn Law Firm hold collective experience defending clients of driving under suspension. We know how important your rights are, and we will do everything in our power to ensure they are protectedCall to schedule a confidential consultation.
Joslyn Law Firm represent clients in counties in central Ohio such as Franklin County, Delaware County, Union County and Madison County.
Information Center
- Penalties for Driving Under Suspension in Ohio
- Why Was My Driver’s License Suspended?
- What is Wrongful Entrustment?
- Additional Resources
Penalties for Driving Under Suspension in Ohio
While driving with a suspended license doesn’t seem like a major crime, you can still face time in jail if you are caught. Driving with a suspended license is a first-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a fine up to $1,000. The court can also impose a license suspension for up to one year in addition to the length of the original suspension.
Repeat convictions will lead vehicle immobilization and even forfeiture. The penalties for a second or subsequent DUS offense are as follows:
- Second offense in two years: Immobilization of the vehicle involved in the offense and impoundment of the vehicle’s license plates for 30 days.
- Third offense in three years: Immobilization of the vehicle involved in the offense and impoundment of the vehicle’s license plates for 30 days.
- Fourth or subsequent offense in three years: Criminal forfeiture of the vehicle involved in the offense
Why Was My Driver’s License Suspended?
There are many reasons your driver’s license could be suspended. No two cases are alike, and reasons vary based on the severity of the facts and circumstances involved. Listed below are some of the most common reasons a license could be suspended:
- DUI / OVI conviction
- Refusing to submit to a chemical test
- Accumulating too many points on your driving record
- Failing to pay fines and fees
- Previous DUS offense
- Causing an accident resulting in $400 or more in damage while uninsured
- Court ordered suspension
What is Wrongful Entrustment?
There are certain circumstances where the owner of a vehicle could be held liable for a driver with a suspended license using their vehicle. This is called wrongful entrustment, and it is listed under section 4511.203 of the Ohio Revised Code.
The ORC states no person shall allow their motor vehicle to be driven by someone under any of the following circumstances:
- The driver does not have a valid driver’s license
- The driver has a suspended license
- The driver has no proof of auto insurance
- The driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Wrongful entrustment is a minor misdemeanor. You will not be required to spend any time in jail, but you could be charged with a fine of up to $150 and be required to complete 500 hours of community service. For a second offense in three years, you could be charged with a first-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a fine up to $1,000.
Additional Resources for Driving Under Suspension
Driving Under Suspension | Ohio Revised Code– Follow the link provided to read the full text of the ORC section over DUS. You can read the precise legal definition of the crime and how it is punished. The code can be read on the Ohio Laws and Rules website.
Wrongful Entrustment | Ohio Revised Code– Visit the Ohio Laws and Rules website to learn more about wrongful entrustment. You can read more about how the crime is punished and other circumstances where a vehicle owner could be held liable for a driver’s DUS offense.
Defense Attorney for Driving Under Suspension in Columbus, OH
There are circumstances where you need to drive a vehicle, and you were just caught in the wrong place at the wrong time. Now you are facing time behind bars and expensive fines.
Call to schedule a confidential consultation. Joslyn Law Firm represents clients in counties across central Oho such as Pickaway County, Fairfield County and Licking County.