When a police officer catches you driving without a license or driving with suspension or revocation status, the consequences will only build and worsen. So, if you’re facing license suspension or revocation, the process of regaining driving privileges should be a careful one taken with seriousness and patience.
There are a lot ways one can wind up facing license suspension — from a DUI to one too many traffic violations. Although, it’s not an uncommon occurrence, that doesn’t take away how inconvenient not having a license can be. However, you shouldn’t drive as you normally would, because of the many unfavorable outcomes of an aggravated unlicensed operation charge. These consequences can include fines and a negative impact on your reputation or future employment.
Financial burden
Not only will you face fines, court and other fees from the initial license removal. But driving with a revoked or suspended license is known as aggravated unlicensed operation (AUO) in New York and can result in more fines in fees. Specifically, with an AUO charge, you’d have to pay a $200 to $500 fine. And if you drive a large hauling vehicle or bus, this isn’t your first offense of this kind or you are guilty of other crimes at the time of your arrest, the fines will be greater.
Impact on personal life
Not being able to take yourself, friends or children from place to place can create difficulty carrying out responsibilities and in social situations. You might have to rely on others, public transportation or rideshare services to travel. Plus, potentially serving jail time can also put a damper on your family life and relationships with friends. It might be harder for someone to trust or rely on you after a criminal conviction.
Compromised career goals
Having a mark on your criminal record can also create issues with your current or future employment. If your job requires you to have a valid driver’s license, then you could be jobless after an AUO charge. Or if you’re on the hunt for a new job, then you might not be able to land one once the employer receives background check results.
If you are facing an AUO charge, an experienced criminal defense attorney can work with you to lessen the weight of the consequences.