This is a widespread offense that I represent clients throughout Los Angeles County and the various courthouses related to DUI cases. I've been doing it for 25 years now, and this is something that the police often target. Driving with a suspended license due to a DUI conviction is described under California Vehicle Code Section 14601.2.
They get people for driving on a suspended license, and their support was broken because they got a DUI, didn't comply with everything they were supposed to with the DMV, and then started driving again.
This is a common offense because people have to drive in California. In other words, it's such a vast city. It's so crowded that people have jobs and various other commitments, making it just not feasible not to drive.
Sometimes, people have to get a job. Sometimes, they need to attend a medical appointment. There are a whole host of reasons why people need to drive. So, during the time they're not supposed to be driving, when they're under punishment for their DUI related to their driver's license, people end up going, and for some reason, they get pulled over.
Probation Violation and Jail Time
One would expect individuals to exercise more caution when driving on a suspended license, especially considering the reason for the suspension, which is typically a DUI. The potential consequences, including criminal charges and the looming threat of jail time, should serve as a stark reminder of the seriousness of the situation.
They're also going to get what's called a probation violation in their DUI case, and they're going to have to go back and face that judge again. Part of the terms and conditions of a DUI probation is to not drive without a valid driver's license, because they know people will go.
They know people are dangerous out on the road who get DUI cases. I'm arguing with prosecutors all the time because they're trying to put my client in jail based on driving on a suspended license because of a DUI.
They consider that much more of a problem than someone driving on a suspended license, perhaps because they have accumulated points or failed to pay their registration fee, or for some other reason.
One mitigating factor that I do point out to the prosecutors is whether the person wasn't drinking and driving when they were pulled over for the suspended license violation.
Defenses for Suspended License Cases
However, if the person was driving safely and was pulled over for a minor infraction or another issue common throughout LA County, there is something called an H20 Squad. These guys are particularly troubled in the Van Nuys Court. They will identify all individuals who have court appearances for DUI on a given day. They will then camp outside the courthouse.
The H20 Squad is a group that operates in Van Nuys court. They monitor individuals with DUI court appearances and observe their behavior after the court session. If they see someone driving with a suspended license, they will pull them over, which can lead to further legal issues. This group is particularly active in the Van Nuys court, where they identify all individuals with court appearances for DUI on a given day and then camp outside the courthouse to catch potential violators.
They're going to cause them to violate probation, and they'll cite and arrest them for a new suspended license case. A probation violation can result in more severe penalties, including extended probation periods, additional fines, or even imprisonment. They know that when they capture people like that, the person's license will probably be suspended for a more extended period because of that arrest and related offense.
They know the person is likely to go to jail. So, they're targeting and preying on these people coming out of the courts.
It's crucial to understand the risks and potential consequences of driving on a suspended license. However, with the right legal representation, such as that of an experienced attorney like myself, these risks can be effectively mitigated. I am here to help you navigate this challenging situation and strive for the best possible outcome for your case. You're not alone in this.
