A motor vehicle is a tool that enables a person to get to work, pick up their kids, shop for groceries, and much more. Without the privilege of being able to drive a motor vehicle, the logistics of a personal’s life may be complicated — or even impossible. However, if a driver’s license expires or is suspended, the penalties for continuing to drive can be serious. Here’s what you should know about driving with a suspended or expired license in MA and what your options are if you’re charged—
Expired vs. Suspended License
An expired license is exactly what it sounds like: a driver’s license that is no longer valid because it has reached its expiration date. If your driver’s license expires in Massachusetts, you can renew it up to two years after the expiration, so long as it hasn’t been suspended or revoked.
Unlike an expired license, a license can be actively suspended by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicle (RMV) for a number of reasons, including:
- Numerous traffic violations
- Unpaid fines
- Non-payment of state taxes
- Out-of-state violations
- Criminal convictions, such as Operating Under the Influence (OUI) charges
- Medical conditions
Penalties for Driving with a Suspended or Expired License in MA
An unlicensed driver does not have the right to operate a motor vehicle in our state. If your driver’s license has been suspended or is expired, you will be acting unlawfully if you choose to drive.
If you are apprehended while driving with a suspended or expired license, you will face additional penalties. If this is a first-time conviction for you, you will face a fine of between $500 and up to $1,000. Depending on your criminal background, you could also face jail time, and have your driver’s license suspended for an additional amount of time.
If this is a second or subsequent offense, the penalties increase. The fine increases to up to $10,000, and you may also be subject to a mandatory minimum jail sentence depending on the original cause of license suspension.
Steps to Take and Defenses if You’ve Been Accused of Driving with a Suspended or Expired License
If you’ve been charged with driving with a suspended or expired license, it’s important that you understand your rights, including your right to defend yourself against the charges. In some cases, you may be able to defend yourself against the charges by arguing that you were unaware that your license was suspended or expired, or by presenting evidence that there was an emergency situation that obligated you to operate a motor vehicle.
In most cases, calling an attorney as soon as possible after being charged is advisable, particularly if this is a second or subsequent offense. An attorney will work with you to explain your rights and advocate for the best case outcome possible.
Call the Law Office of Paul R. Moraski Today
To learn more about your options when you’re facing charges for driving with an expired or suspended license, call the Law Office of Paul R. Moraski today. Our Massachusetts criminal defense attorney will work hard for you. You can reach our team online or at (978) 397-0011.