What are the Penalties for Driving on a Suspended/Revoked license? (Non-Big Four)

Driving on a suspended or revoked license in Illinois is considered a serious offense, and there are mandatory penalties associated with it.

In Illinois, a "big four" offense refers to driving with a suspended or revoked license due to one of the following serious violations:

1. Driving Under the Influence (DUI)

2. Reckless Homicide

3. Leaving the Scene of a Personal Injury or Fatal Accident

4. Using a Vehicle in the Commission of a Felony

If your suspension/revocation is based on one of these four reasons, the penalites will be escalated in accordance with the law. Keep in mind that laws may be subject to change, so it's advisable to consult the most recent statutes or seek legal advice for the latest information.For non-Big four offenses, here are some general aspects of the penalties for driving on a suspended or revoked license in Illinois:

First Offense:

1. Class A Misdemeanor:

   • Driving on a suspended or revoked license is typically classified as a Class A misdemeanor for a first offense.

2. Penalties:

   • A potential sentence of up to one year in jail.

   • A fine of up to $2,500.

Subsequent Offenses:

1. Felony Offense:

   • Subsequent offenses for driving on a suspended or revoked license can elevate the charge to a felony.

2. Penalties:

   • A potential sentence of one to three years in prison.

   • A fine of up to $25,000.

Vehicle Impoundment:

1. Vehicle Seizure:

   • In addition to the criminal penalties, the arresting law enforcement agency has the authority to impound the vehicle used in the offense.

2. Vehicle Forfeiture:

   • For certain repeat offenses, the state may seek the forfeiture of the vehicle involved in the offense.

Court Supervision:

1. Limited Availability:

   • Court supervision, which is a form of probation that does not result in a conviction, may be available in some cases. However, it is typically not available for subsequent offenses.

Defenses and Legal Assistance:

1. Possible Defenses:

   • There may be legal defenses available, depending on the circumstances. For example, if the license was incorrectly suspended or there was a lack of notice, a defense may be possible.

2. Legal Assistance:

   • It is advisable for individuals facing charges related to driving on a suspended or revoked license to seek legal assistance. An attorney can help assess the specific details of the case and provide guidance on potential defenses or mitigation strategies.

It's important to note that these penalties are provided as general information and may be subject to changes in Illinois law. Legal advice from a qualified attorney is crucial for individuals facing charges related to driving on a suspended or revoked license to understand their specific situation and navigate the legal process effectively.

If you or a loved one has a suspended or revoked license, or has received a charge for driving on a suspended/revoked license, call the Law Offices of Richard Waller for a free consultation.

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