If you find yourself arrested or cited for a criminal offense in Florida there is a vast amount of collateral consequences you might be facing in addition to jail time or a criminal record. One of these consequences includes the possibility of having your driver’s license suspended or revoked as a result of your criminal case. Below is a list of criminal offenses in Florida that can you lead to the suspension or revocation of your driving license here in Florida.
Drug Crimes – If convicted of a possession, sale, or trafficking of illegal drugs you could loser your license for up to one year or until you complete a court-approved drug treatment program.
Failure to Appear in Traffic Court or Pay a Traffic Ticket – Do not ignore your traffic citations as minor as they might appear if not handled properly or timely you be looking at a lengthy license suspension for a matter that could have been handled timely.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)– Police Officers in Florida are allowed to take your driver’s license after placing you under arrest on suspicion of DUI. This suspension can be extended if you are convicted of Driving Under the Influence for six months to a year if it is your first day. If you have prior DUI’s on your record, the suspension can get vary and turn into a permanent revocation.
Refusing a Breath Test or Blowing Over the Legal Limit – If you are stopped for DUI, refuse to take a breath test or take the breath test and results are over the legal limit, this may result in your license being suspended.
Traffic Points – If you are convicted of any moving traffic violations in Florida points will be added to your license and if you accumulate a certain number of points your license can be suspended. Enough points or convictions can also lead to being a Habitual Traffic Offender (HTO) and losing your license for a period of 5 years.
- 12 points within 12 months: 30-day suspension
- 18 points within 18 months: 90-day suspension
- 24 points within 36 months: 1-year suspension
Failure to Pay Child Support– The Florida Department of Revenue can issue a suspension of your driver’s license and your license may be suspended until you have come to a payment plan agreement with the Department or pay any past due amounts.
*The above is not an exhaustive list of offenses or situations in Florida that can result in your license being suspended. The reality is there are so many ways your license can be affected from being cited or charged with a crime. Additionally, if you possess a Commercial Driver’s License the penalties can be much harsher. Talk to an experienced attorney and they will guide you through this process and hopefully protect your ability to legally drive.
