Asserting Your Rights And Protecting Your Future

Driving Without Privileges

A conviction on a charge of driving without privileges, also known as driving while suspended (DWP or DWS), carries with it some heavy penalties. If the DWP comes as a result of a suspension for a DUI charge, the potential consequences are even more serious.

At Martens Law Office, P.C., we offer criminal defense for people accused of DWP, DUI, and other traffic violation charges. Our attorney has over 10 years of experience defending clients charged with driving while suspended or revoked.

Before pleading guilty to a DWP charge, get the advice of an experienced attorney. In many cases, the charge can be reduced to an invalid license which carries considerably fewer penalties. For instance, if you plead guilty to an invalid license it is unlikely that you will have to serve any jail time, community service or SILD days. In addition, there is no driver’s license suspension associated with an Invalid License. Finally, if the DWP is reduced to an invalid license, you will not be required to carry SR-22. Contact our firm today at 208-435-1132.

DWP Penalties

1st offense – A first offense DWP carries with it up to 180 days of jail, probation at the discretion of the court, up to a $1,000 fine, and up to a six-month driver’s license suspension.

2nd offense within a 5-year period – A second offense DWP carries with it up to one year in jail, probation in the discretion of the court up to a $1,000 fine, and a one-year driver’s license suspension.

3rd offense or more within a 5-year period – A third offense DWP within a five-year period carries with it up to one year of jail, probation at the discretion of the court, up to a $3,000 fine and a mandatory two-year driver’s license suspension.

The potential penalties for DWP are serious. A conviction will result in a further license suspension in addition to any suspension you are currently serving. Legal representation is extremely important if you are charged with driving without privileges.

Defenses For A DWP Charge

As with any other traffic stop, the police must have probable cause to suspect that you are engaged in illegal behavior. When representing you, we will carefully examine all aspects of your case, looking for a way to overcome the charge. If there is a way to obtain a dismissal of the charge, we will find it.

Contact our firm for a free initial consultation. We would be happy to assess your case and provide you with sound legal advice regarding your DWP charge. By telephone contact us at 208-435-1132.