Driving with a suspended or revoked license in Tacoma is more than just a simple traffic violation: it’s a criminal offense. In Washington State, this charge is referred to as DWLS—Driving While License Suspended.
Whether your license was suspended for unpaid tickets, a DUI, or failure to appear in court, getting caught behind the wheel can lead to serious fines, jail time, and even longer suspensions.
Let’s take a closer look at what DWLS means, what Washington has to say about it, and how an experienced Tacoma defense attorney can help you.
What Is DWLS?Again, DWLS stands for driving while license suspended or revoked. In Washington, it is divided into three degrees, depending on why your license was suspended in the first place:
Having a Tacoma-based criminal defense attorney at your side is important because a first-degree DWLS charge can severely impact your freedom and your future.
DWLS Second Degree − Common But SeriousSome of the penalties include:
This is considered a simple misdemeanor and usually happens when:
This charge is often referred to as a paperwork suspension. The penalties include:
Even a less severe DWLS in the third degree can affect your employment, insurance, and ability to drive legally. That’s why consulting a criminal defense attorney in Pierce County is a smart move.
DWLS in Pierce County CourtsWhen you’re cited for a DWLS in Tacoma, your case will likely be handled in:
Some DWLS cases can also trigger probation violations for some, especially if you’re already under supervision for a previous driving-related offense.
How to Fix or Avoid Your DWLS Charge in TacomaHere are some steps you can take to potentially fix your situation:
In some cases, your Tacoma attorney can help you reinstate your license and have your charges dropped or reduced.
DWLS and Your InsuranceA DWLS conviction will most certainly affect your auto insurance.
A DWLS charge in Tacoma can have a ripple effect on your personal and professional life. It isn’t just about jail time or fines; it’s about the long-term consequences of a criminal record.
As you can see, these charges can follow you long after you leave the courtroom, especially if your case isn’t handled properly. That’s why hiring a Pierce County attorney to help you manage your case is an investment in your future.
Options for Resolving Your DWLS Charge in TacomaIf you were recently charged with a DWLS in Tacoma, don’t worry–you aren’t necessarily stuck. The good news is that there are ways you can resolve your case and move forward with your life. However, your options depend on your criminal history, the degree of the DWLS, and whether your license has been reinstated.
Some common resolutions include:
Once you get the ticket, it sets off a legal process you can’t avoid.
If you choose to ignore the ticket, it can result in a warrant for your arrest, further license suspension, and increased penalties. Contacting a skilled Tacoma defense attorney is the best way to protect your record and driving privileges.
Frequently Asked QuestionsYes, jail is a possibility, especially if it’s for a first- or second-degree DWLS charge. First degree is the most severe and often includes mandatory jail time, while second degree is a gross misdemeanor that comes with a risk of facing jail time. Even third-degree DWLS can lead to jail time if you choose to ignore it or repeat it.
The answer to this depends. You can still be charged, but your attorney can use this as a defense, especially if you never received notice from the DOL. Lack of notice is a common issue in third-degree DWLS cases.
Yes. A DWLS conviction will go on both your criminal and driving record, which can ultimately affect employment, housing, and insurance opportunities. However, your Tacoma defense attorney might be able to get the charges dismissed or amended.
Often, you can. If you pay your fines, satisfy your court obligations, and submit SR-22 insurance if necessary, you may be able to get your license reinstated. This can also help your case in Pierce County Court, as the judge often favors those who have already fixed their license issues.
It is possible to do so. Washington law allows for vacation (removal) of certain misdemeanor convictions, including third-degree DWLS, if you meet eligibility requirements like time passed, no new crimes, and all fines were paid. Your Tacoma attorney can help you file the proper motion.
You can check the status of your license online through the Washington DOL License Status Tool, or you can contact the DOL directly. It’s important to check before you get behind the wheel to ensure you have no court or ticket issues.
A DWLS charge isn’t just a traffic issue in Tacoma, Washington; it is a criminal offense that can affect your license, freedom, and future. Whether it’s your first offense or a repeated charge, you don’t have to handle it alone.
Your experienced Tacoma criminal defense attorney can review the facts of your case, identify procedural or legal defenses, work to reduce or dismiss the charges, help you reinstate your license, and represent you in Pierce County court proceedings.
Don’t let one mistake derail your driving privileges forever. Put a skilled Tacoma attorney in the driver’s seat and let them confidently take control of your case.
Driving With A Suspended License Is Serious - Our Tacoma DWLS Attorneys Can HelpIt is against the law to drive with a suspended or revoked license in Tacoma. If you are convicted of this crime, you could be punished with severe penalties that could dramatically alter your life. Our Tacoma lawyers can help you better understand how the law applies to your DWLS (driving while license suspended) case, but the following information will provide you with some helpful guidance.
In Tacoma, DWLS charges are categorized according to the severity of the crime, and your charge will depend upon the nature of your original driver's license suspension. If you are a habitual offender whose license was suspended because of a DUI, hit and run, or other criminal offense, you will most likely be charged with either first or second degree DWLS. If your license was suspended because you failed to pay a traffic citation, or for not carrying legally-mandated auto insurance, you may be charged with third degree DWLS, which is a misdemeanor offense.
Our Tacoma DWLS lawyers have more than 30 years of experience collectively, and we will use that experience in an effort to mitigate the penalties associated with your crime. Your Tacoma DWLS attorneys will first want to familiarize you with Washington law as it pertains to your offense, so that you can better understand the charges against you. Next, we will work together to fully develop your defense strategy while protecting your legal rights.
No matter which degree of DWLS you're charged with, your situation demands serious attention. Our experienced Tacoma driving while license suspended lawyers will be at your side throughout the legal process, so contact our law office today.
Get Help From Qualified Tacoma DWLS Lawyers Who Care About ResultsWhen you're charged with an Tacoma DWLS, there is a chance you could go to jail or lose your driver's license permanently. Protecting your interests is at the heart of professional legal representation, because if you're unable to drive you may find it impossible to work, or take care of your family. The qualified Tacoma DWLS attorneys at the Law Office of Jason S. Newcombe will help you navigate the complexities of the Washington court system while acting as your personal advocate and trusted legal counselor. Skillful litigation and thorough preparation is necessary to reach an end result that can be considered favorable, which is something our legal team takes very seriously.
You have legal options, so schedule a consultation with one of our Tacoma DWLS lawyers today, and we will start answering your most urgent questions. The likelihood of successfully resolving your case increases significantly by getting a fast head start on your case, so call us today to review your DWLS case.
Don't lose your driving privileges because of a Tacoma DWLS. Instead, allow our Tacoma driving while license suspended attorneys help you seek ways to minimize your penalties while offering you reliable legal counsel as we aggressively defend your interests.