Driving With A Suspended License

Driving with a Suspended License in Oakland County, Macomb County, and Wayne County, Michigan

Facing charges for driving with a suspended license in Oakland County, Macomb County, or Wayne County, Michigan? At Fraiberg & Pernie, our experienced criminal defense attorneys help clients in Rochester Hills, Troy, Farmington Hills, Novi, Birmingham, Bloomfield Township, West Bloomfield, and throughout the region avoid harsh penalties and get their driving privileges back.

Driving with a suspended or revoked license (DWLS/DWLR) is a serious misdemeanor under Michigan Compiled Laws (MCL) 257.904. It is not just a traffic ticket—it can lead to jail time, fines, extended suspensions, and complications reinstating your license. The penalties depend on prior offenses, the reason for the original suspension, and whether an accident occurred.

Michigan Penalties for Driving on a Suspended License (MCL 257.904)

Offense Type	Jail Time	Fine	Other Consequences
First Offense	Up to 93 days	Up to $500	License plates canceled (unless stolen), additional suspension, 2 points on record
Second or Subsequent	Up to 1 year	Up to $1,000	Plates canceled, vehicle immobilization possible, longer suspension
Causing Serious Injury	Up to 5 years (felony)	$1,000–$5,000	Possible vehicle forfeiture
Causing Death	Up to 15 years (felony)	$2,500–$10,000	Possible vehicle forfeiture

These penalties apply statewide, including in Oakland County, Macomb County, and Wayne County courts. Repeat offenses or accidents make the situation much worse.

Can You Get a Restricted License While Suspended?

In many cases, yes. Michigan allows a restricted driver’s license for essential travel (work, school, medical appointments, court-ordered treatment) after serving part of the suspension. Eligibility depends on the original reason for suspension (e.g., OWI cases often require an ignition interlock device). Our attorneys can help you apply through the Secretary of State and fight for the broadest possible restricted privileges.

Why You Need an Experienced Attorney Right Away

Courts in Oakland County (e.g., 52-3 District), Macomb County, and Wayne County strictly enforce DWLS charges. A conviction adds points, extends your suspension, and can make future reinstatement harder. We can:

Challenge whether you knew your license was suspended
Negotiate reductions to civil infractions or dismissals
Fight for no jail time or minimal fines
Help secure or expand restricted driving privileges
Assist with license reinstatement hearings

What Should You Do If Caught Driving on a Suspended License?

Stay calm and polite — Do not admit guilt or argue with the officer.
Do not drive until your license is legally restored or restricted.
Contact an attorney immediately — Time is critical to avoid harsher penalties.
Attend all court dates — Missing them can worsen your situation.

Serving Clients Across Oakland County, Macomb County & Wayne County

Fraiberg & Pernie provides aggressive defense for DWLS/DWLR charges in cities including:

All of Oakland County
Rochester
Royal Oak
Troy
Farmington Hills
Novi
Birmingham
Bloomfield Township
West Bloomfield
And all of Macomb and Wayne County (Detroit, Dearborn, Livonia, etc.)

If you’ve been charged with driving on a suspended license, don’t face it alone. Contact Fraiberg & Pernie today for a free, confidential consultation. Call us 24/7 at [phone number] or fill out our online form. We’re here to protect your rights and help you get back on the road legally.