When you make the decision to drive without a license, whether it has been revoked or you forgot it at home, you should be aware of the different consequences you may face. In the event that you accidentally left your license at home, you generally have 24 hours to present your valid driver’s license at the police station and you won’t find yourself in too much trouble. If you fail to prove you have a valid license, you may face a fine of between $75 and $300, or no more than 15 days of imprisonment. This can be easily avoided. However, if you know or reasonably should have known that your license has been suspended or revoked because of a prior offense, the consequences become much more serious.
These infractions are known as the aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, or an AUO. A first offense AUO can result in a misdemeanor with a fine of up to $500 and/or up to 30 days of imprisonment. Like anything else, multiple infractions means further penalties. For example, if you are charged with a first-degree AUO, you are facing a class E felony. This conviction can result in a fine of up to $5,000 and either jail time or probation for anywhere between 1 and 4 years.
If you have been charged with an AUO in Rockland County, you will need to retain the services of an experienced criminal defense attorney who can work to fight on your behalf.
Kevin T. Conway has over 30 years of experience as a Spring Valley criminal attorney handling DUI, DWI, traffic violations, violent crimes, sex crimes, illegal gun possession, shoplifting, and juvenile crimes. If you need a Rockland County criminal lawyer, contact our Spring Valley office for a free consultation.
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