Penalties Can Be Severe
Regardless of the reason, if you get caught driving with a suspended license, you may be guilty of a misdemeanor with potentially severe consequences. In addition to significant fines, you could even spend time in jail. Oklahoma state law increases the potential fine depending on the number of previous times you were caught driving with a revoked or suspended license. These potential costs are: (1) $100 to $500 for the first offense, (2) $200 to $750 for the second, and (3) $300 to $1,000 for the third. In any case, the court has the option to impose up to a one year jail sentence, or any combination of fines or jail within these ranges.
DUI-Related Suspensions Bring Increased Penalties
If your underlying suspension or revocation resulted from a DUI or refusing an alcohol test, Oklahoma law increases the fines if you violate your driving restrictions. While the potential for up to one year in jail remains the same, the fines increase to the following: (1) between $500 and $1,000 for the first offense, (2) $1,000 and $2,000 for the second, and (3) $2,000 to $5,000 if you are caught a third time.
Your Suspension Period May Also Be Extended
Once you have been convicted of driving with a suspended license, the Department of Motor Vehicles will extend your suspension three months. Again, if the suspension was due to a DUI, the total addition of suspension time is increased to four months. If convicted of driving with a suspended license three times, a twelve month additional suspension is added.
Initial Consultation: Tulsa Criminal Defense Attorney
Misdemeanor crimes in Tulsa, including driving with a suspended license, carry significant consequences. It is important that you consult with a Tulsa criminal defense attorney if you are facing charges. For a low-cost and completely confidential consultation, call the Seventh Street Tulsa Law Office by calling (918) 932-2777.