Suspended License Attorney
Serving Wyoming & South Dakota
Driving with a suspended license is a serious traffic offense that can lead to severe consequences, including additional license suspensions, hefty fines, and even jail time. If you’ve been accused of operating a vehicle while your driving privileges were suspended in Wyoming or South Dakota, it’s crucial to speak with a knowledgeable suspended license lawyer right away.
At Just Criminal Law, we understand how disruptive a license suspension can be to your daily life. You rely on your ability to drive to get to work, care for your family, and manage everyday responsibilities. Our skilled defense attorneys are here to help you fight your charge, explore reinstatement options, and protect your driving record.
Call (307) 300-2240 for a confidential consultation.
Reasons for a Suspended License in Wyoming & South Dakota
There are many reasons a driver’s license might be suspended in Wyoming or South Dakota. Understanding why your license was suspended can help your attorney build the strongest possible defense and determine the best route to reinstatement.
Common Reasons for License Suspension in Wyoming
- Accumulating Too Many Points: Wyoming uses a point system where certain traffic violations add points to your record. Too many points can trigger a suspension.
- DUI/DWUI Offenses: Driving under the influence is one of the most common causes of suspension. Even a first-time DUI conviction can result in license loss.
- Failure to Appear in Court or Pay Fines: Ignoring a traffic ticket or failing to pay fines can result in automatic suspension.
- Driving Without Insurance: Wyoming law requires all drivers to carry liability insurance. Failing to provide proof can lead to suspension.
- Serious Traffic Violations: Reckless driving, hit and run, or causing injury in an accident may lead to immediate suspension.
Common Reasons for License Suspension in South Dakota
- DUI or Chemical Test Refusal:: Refusing a breath or blood test after a DUI arrest in South Dakota results in automatic suspension under implied consent laws.
- Failure to Pay Child Support: The state may suspend licenses for failure to meet child support obligations.
- Unpaid Fines or Court Judgments: Outstanding fines or judgments related to traffic offenses can lead to suspension.
- Traffic Violation Accumulation: Repeated offenses or high-risk driving behavior can trigger administrative suspension.
- Out-of-State Violations: South Dakota honors suspensions imposed by other states through the Driver License Compact.
No matter the cause, driving on a suspended license only makes matters worse. Our Gillette suspended license attorney from Just Criminal Law can help you evaluate your situation, challenge the suspension, and seek to restore your driving privileges as quickly as possible.
Penalties for Driving with a Suspended License in WY
Wyoming takes license suspensions seriously, and operating a vehicle while your license is suspended is a criminal offense—not just a traffic violation.
First Offense
- Misdemeanor charge
- Fines: Up to $750
- Possible jail time: Up to 6 months
- Extended suspension: Your license suspension may be extended by an additional period set by the court
Subsequent Offenses
Repeat offenders face harsher penalties, including longer suspension periods, increased fines, and a greater likelihood of jail time.
In addition, a conviction will stay on your driving record, potentially impacting your insurance rates and employment opportunities. Working with our team ensures your defense is handled properly to minimize these long-term consequences.
Penalties for Driving with a Suspended License in SD
South Dakota law also treats driving while suspended as a serious misdemeanor. The penalties depend on the reason for the suspension and whether you have prior offenses.
First Offense
- Class 2 Misdemeanor
- Fines: Up to $500
- Jail time: Up to 30 days
- Extended suspension: Up to 6 months added to your suspension period
Subsequent Offenses or Aggravated Circumstances:
If your suspension resulted from a DUI or other serious offense, or if this is a repeat violation, the charge could escalate to a Class 1 Misdemeanor, which carries:
- Fines: Up to $2,000
- Jail time: Up to 1 year
- Extended suspension: Additional 1 year or more
Even a single conviction can make it much harder to regain your license and can significantly affect your criminal record. With experienced legal representation from Just Criminal Law, you can pursue a defense that protects your rights and works toward reinstatement.
Defending Against a Driving While Suspended Charge
Our experienced suspended license lawyer can evaluate the details of your case to identify possible defenses, such as:
- Lack of Knowledge: You were not properly notified that your license had been suspended.
- Administrative Error: The DMV or court records were incorrect or outdated.
- Emergency Circumstances: You drove due to an emergency situation.
- Improper Traffic Stop: The officer lacked reasonable suspicion or probable cause to stop your vehicle.
Our firm investigates all evidence, challenges procedural mistakes, and negotiates with prosecutors to seek reduced penalties, dismissals, or hardship reinstatements when possible.
FAQs About Driving on a Suspended License in WY & SD
Can I drive to work if my license is suspended?
In both Wyoming and South Dakota, you generally cannot drive on a suspended license. However, you may qualify for a restricted or hardship license that allows limited driving for work, school, or medical needs.
How do I reinstate my license after suspension?
Reinstatement depends on the cause of suspension. You’ll typically need to pay fines, complete any court-ordered requirements (like DUI classes), and pay reinstatement fees to the DMV.
What happens if I was unaware my license was suspended?
If you can prove you didn’t receive proper notice of the suspension, your attorney may be able to use that as a defense to dismiss or reduce your charge.
Can my suspension in another state affect my Wyoming or South Dakota license?
Yes. Both states share information through the Driver License Compact, meaning a suspension in one state can carry over to another.
Should I hire an attorney for a suspended license case?
Absolutely. Driving on a suspended license is a criminal offense, not just a traffic matter. A Gillette suspended license lawyer can help protect your rights, minimize penalties, and guide you through reinstatement.
Contact Just Criminal Law Today
If you’ve been charged with driving on a suspended or revoked license in Wyoming or South Dakota, don’t face it alone. At Just Criminal Law, we help drivers protect their rights and get back on the road legally.
If you are ready to move forward, contact Just Criminal Law today.
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