Driving is imperative to everyday life, from going to work and getting the groceries. Losing your license will greatly impact your routine and ability to perform these everyday tasks. In Michigan, your license may be suspended, revoked, or denied for many different reasons such as operating while intoxicated (OWI), accumulating too many driving record points, or using your vehicle to commit a felony. Driving with a suspended, revoked or denied license is a criminal offense, punishable by jail time, fines, and/or a delay in the restoration of your license. Clients charged with DWLS fall into a repeat pattern of constant driving-related offenses. A skilled attorney can help you to defend against a DWLS or DWLR charge, possibly get your license reinstated and break the cycle of constant arrests.
Under MCL 257.904, the penalties for driving with a suspended, revoked or denied license vary depending on if it is your first or second offense.
Penalties for First Offense
- Imprisonment of not more than 93 days
- Fine of not more than $500
- Cancellation of registration plates
- Continued license suspension
- Driver’s responsibility fees
Penalties for Second Offense
- Imprisonment of not more than 1 year
- A fine of not more than $1,000
- Cancellation of registration plates
- Continued license suspension
- Driver’s responsibility fees
You can also be charged under MCL 257.904 if they allow another individual whose license has been suspended, revoked, or denied to drive their vehicle.
If you cause serious harm or the death of another individual while driving with a suspended, revoked, or denied license, more severe penalties will apply. For the death of another, you will be charged with a felony punishable by imprisonment of not more than 15 years or a fine of not less than $10,000, or both. For causing serious harm to another, you will be charged with a felony punishable by imprisonment of not more than 5 years or a fine of not less than $5,000, or both.
If you or someone you know is dealing a legal issue relating to driving with a suspended, revoked, or denied license, it is imperative that you seek legal representation from a lawyer familiar with this area of law. Finding resolution that can keep someone’s criminal record clean and keep you out of jail may be available.
