Driving while your license is suspended in Michigan is a criminal offense that can lead to jail time, fines, extended license sanctions, and lasting consequences on your driving record. A DWLS charge often follows a prior traffic or DUI matter, and the penalties increase quickly with repeat offenses. At Jeffrey Randa and Associates, we represent clients across Michigan, including Greater Detroit and the surrounding areas, and we focus on limiting damage to your record while working toward license stability. We review your license history, address the underlying suspension issues, and take steps to minimize penalties while helping you work toward lawful driving again.
Why Choose Jeffrey Randa and Associates for a Michigan DWLS Case
A DWLS charge requires more than a basic traffic defense. These cases involve license status history, court records, and Secretary of State actions that must be addressed carefully.
We help clients by focusing on practical results and realistic outcomes.
- Over 30 years of experience handling Michigan traffic and criminal cases
- Regular representation in Metro-Detroit courts
- Strong familiarity with Secretary of State license actions
- Clear communication about risks, timelines, and options
- Defense strategies aimed at minimizing penalties and protecting driving privileges
We understand how DWLS cases are handled locally and how to position your case for the best possible outcome.
What Does Driving While License Suspended Mean in Michigan?
In Michigan, driving while license suspended means operating a vehicle when your license has been suspended, revoked, denied, or restricted beyond what the law allows. Many drivers are surprised to learn their license status has changed due to unpaid tickets, missed court dates, prior DUI cases, or administrative actions.
Common situations that lead to DWLS charges include:
- Driving after a suspension for unpaid fines or fees
- Driving while revoked following a DUI/OWI conviction
- Driving outside the terms of a restricted license
- Failing to reinstate a license after a suspension period ends
The charge applies even if the suspension was administrative rather than criminal.
DWLS Penalties in Michigan for a First Offense
A first DWLS conviction is typically charged as a misdemeanor. Penalties may include:
- Up to 93 days in jail
- Fines and court costs
- Additional license suspension or denial
- Possible vehicle immobilization
In many cases, courts focus on whether the suspension stemmed from a serious underlying issue, such as DUI or repeated traffic violations. Addressing the root cause of the suspension is often just as important as resolving the DWLS charge itself.
Penalties for Second or Third DWLS Offenses
Repeat DWLS charges carry harsher consequences. A second or subsequent conviction can result in:
- Up to 1 year in jail
- Longer license revocation periods
- Possible vehicle immobilization or forfeiture
- Higher fines and stricter probation terms
Judges have less flexibility in repeat cases, especially when prior convictions are recent or related to alcohol-related offenses.
Can You Go to Jail for Driving While License Suspended?
Yes. Jail is a legal possibility for DWLS in Michigan, even for a first offense. While not every case results in incarceration, courts may impose jail time when there is a history of noncompliance, prior DUI convictions, or repeated license violations.
Our role is to present your case in a way that reduces the risk of custody and keeps the focus on compliance and resolution.
How DWLS Affects Your Michigan Driving Record
A DWLS conviction adds points to your driving record and can trigger further Secretary of State action. This can delay reinstatement, increase insurance costs, and complicate future license appeals.
In some situations, resolving the underlying suspension issue early can limit long-term damage and help stabilize your driving status sooner.
Defending a DWLS Charge in Metro-Detroit Courts
Every DWLS case is different. Defense strategies often focus on:
- Verifying license status at the time of the stop
- Reviewing notice and service issues related to the suspension
- Addressing errors in Secretary of State records
- Coordinating license reinstatement steps alongside the court case
We handle DWLS cases throughout Oakland, Macomb, Wayne, and surrounding counties and tailor the approach to the court and judge involved.
Take Action Before a DWLS Charge Gets Worse
A driving while license suspended charge can escalate quickly if it is ignored or mishandled. We will review your license history, explain what the court is likely to focus on, and work toward a resolution that limits additional penalties and protects your ability to move forward.
Contact Jeffrey Randa and Associates today to discuss your Michigan DWLS charge and next steps.
DWLS in Michigan: Frequently Asked Questions
Is driving while license suspended a felony in Michigan?
DWLS itself is a misdemeanor in Michigan, but repeat violations can still carry up to one year in jail and extended license consequences.
Can I fix my license while my DWLS case is pending?
In many cases, yes. Addressing the suspension early can positively affect how the court views the case.
Does DWLS affect a future license appeal?
Yes. Additional violations can complicate reinstatement and lengthen the process.
What if I did not know my license was suspended?
Lack of knowledge does not automatically dismiss the charge, but notice issues may be relevant to the defense.