Phoenix Suspended License Lawyer
Having a driver’s license is easy to take for granted. Until the day comes when a mistake lands you in court and leaves you having to fight for your right to drive. The reality is that good people can have bad days, and when a bad day leads to a suspended license, you deserve a lawyer who will stand in your corner. I’ve served defendants in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and the surrounding area since 2005.
Furthermore, drivers aren’t the only ones who have bad days. The people in law enforcement and throughout the system aren’t perfect either, and maybe it’s their mistakes that led to the suspension of your license. Whatever the cause, you can count on The Koplow Law Firm to work hard to get to the bottom of it.
Call (602) 560-7837 today or contact me online for a free consultation.
The Ways You Can Lose Your License
The end result of a lost driver’s license is the same—you can’t legally drive—but there are different legal mechanisms involved, with different consequences:
Suspension
A suspension refers to the temporary removal of your privilege to drive. Even after the suspension period ends, your driving privilege is not automatically reinstated. You must meet specific conditions, such as paying fees or completing required programs, to have your driving privileges restored.
Revocation
A revocation is the termination of your driving privilege. This is more severe than a suspension. Once the revocation period is over, you must take additional steps to regain your driving privileges--they remain revoked until you apply for and are approved for reinstatement.
Cancellation
A cancellation occurs when your driver’s license is terminated without prejudice. While it mirrors a suspension or revocation in ending your driving privileges, there’s a key difference—after a cancellation, you are immediately eligible to apply for a new license.
Restriction
A restriction limits the conditions under which you can drive. For example, you may only be allowed to drive during certain hours or need to meet specific requirements, such as using an ignition interlock device.
Defenses Against Driving Without a License
Depending on the details of your case, several possible defenses could apply:
Lack of Knowledge
Arizona law requires the prosecution to prove that you knew or should have known your license was suspended or revoked. If you never received notice of the suspension or revocation, this defense could apply. For example, clerical errors, improper mailing, or other administrative issues might prevent you from being properly informed.
Necessity
This defense can be used if you were driving due to an emergency or urgent situation. For instance, if you need to drive to avoid immediate danger, get medical help, or assist someone in distress, the court may consider the necessity as a valid reason for your actions. However, the burden is on you to demonstrate that you had no reasonable alternative in the situation.
Procedural Errors
Arrests for driving on a suspended or revoked license must comply with strict procedures. Police officers are required to act within legal boundaries, and any violation of your rights or errors in the arrest process could lead to the dismissal of your charges. Examples include stopping you without probable cause or conducting an unlawful seizure of evidence.
Administrative Mistakes
Sometimes licenses are incorrectly suspended or revoked due to errors at the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) of the Arizona Department of Transportation. If it can be proven that the suspension was issued in error or your compliance was not correctly recorded, this could weaken the prosecution’s case and may even result in the dismissal of charges.
Penalties for Driving Without a License
Driving without a valid license in Arizona can lead to serious legal consequences that go beyond immediate fines or jail time. The possibilities range from misdemeanor charges to felony offenses, depending on the circumstances.
The immediate repercussions typically include steep fines, court costs, and the possibility of jail time. First-time offenders may face lighter penalties, while repeat violations or charges linked to DUI-related suspensions carry harsher consequences. Jail sentences can range from days to months, depending on the severity of the offense and the driver's record.
Beyond the courtroom, the long-term effects can significantly disrupt your life. Losing driving privileges complicates daily tasks like commuting to work, attending school, or managing family responsibilities. This can also limit job opportunities, especially in professions requiring valid licensing or clean driving records.
Additionally, insurance premiums can be increased—often substantially--after being charged with driving without a valid license. Some insurers may deny coverage altogether, leaving you with higher costs or limited options for vehicle insurance.
Protecting and Restoring Your Rights
When you’re dealing with a suspended license, let me help. I’ve worked in the criminal justice system for over two decades. That includes time as a prosecutor, where I saw firsthand how imperfect those on the other side can be. I’m not the kind of lawyer who is here to judge you. I’m here to fight for you.
Call my Phoenix office today at (602) 560-7837. I’m available 24/7 and can meet either in person or virtually.
Hear From the People We’ve Helped
Testimonials and Reviews
At The Koplow Law Firm, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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"Great trial attorney."
Lawrence is tenacious, relentless, and extremely passionate about his clients and their cases. He leaves no stone unturned in his investigations, and his cross examinations are grueling. His knowledge of the science of DUI's and the testing procedures is unsurpassed. Great trial attorney.
- Jesse S. -
"Unquestionably one of the top DUI/ criminal defense attorneys in Arizona."As a practicing attorney in DUI and criminal defense, and as a former prosecutor who went against Lawrence on several cases, I can attest that the State knows they will have their hands full when Lawrence is on the case.- Ryan M.
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"You cannot go wrong with Lawrence."
Great attorney! Lawrence thinks outside the box and goes above and beyond for his clients and the legal community at large. If you are looking for aggressive representation, you cannot go wrong with Lawrence.
- Charity C. -
"No other lawyer knows the science of DUI like Lawrence does."Lawrence is the best lawyer I have ever met. If your career is on the line then he is the guy. No other lawyer knows the science of DUI like Lawrence does. I will be forever grateful!- Greg S.
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"It was miracle!"
It was miracle!... A lot of people don't really understand the benefit of having an attorney who used to be a prosecutor. They know all the little tricks and scare tactics the state has as opposed to just hiring an attorney who is a little fish in a big pond.
- Joe C. -
"One of the best."Lawrence Koplow is one of the best DUI and vehicular defense attorneys in the state of Arizona. Anyone would be extremely fortunate to have him as their advocate.- Jack L.
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"You cannot go wrong with Lawrence."Lawrence thinks outside the box and goes above and beyond for his clients and the legal community at large. If you are looking for aggressive representation, you cannot go wrong with Lawrence.- Charity C.
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"Nobody knows the court and laws better than him."Lawrence represents very high-profile clients who greatly depend on a good outcome, and this guy will deliver. This is a prosecutors' worse nightmare, and it should be that way if you need an attorney.- David E.
DUI Library
The best DUI defense stuff that only a few know and none want to share. A one of a kind annotated resource for lawyers, people accused, or anyone who wants to see what’s going on in our justice system with DUI cases… and how to fix it.
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Scottsdale DUI Definitive GuideScottsdale DUI Definitive Guide
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The Definitive Guide to Defeating an Arizona DUIThe Definitive Guide to Defeating an Arizona DUI
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Field Sobriety Tests in Arizona DUI CasesField Sobriety Tests in Arizona DUI Cases
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Traffic Stops in Arizona DUI CasesTraffic Stops in Arizona DUI Cases
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Warrantless Blood Draws in Arizona DUI CasesWarrantless Blood Draws in Arizona DUI Cases
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Right to Counsel in Arizona DUI CasesRight to Counsel in Arizona DUI Cases
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Failure to Preserve EvidenceFailure to Preserve Evidence
