If you are arrested or cited for Driving Without a License, the types of charges you can face and the seriousness of them can vary greatly. You may end up charged with a simple Infraction, the equivalent of a traffic ticket. However, you could also end up cited for the same section of the Vehicle Code, CVC 12500, but filed as a Misdemeanor for Driving Without a License.
If you are cited for a violation of the Misdemeanor version of CVC 12500 – Driving Without a License, you will be given a date to appear in court. Unlike a traffic ticket, if you are cited or charged with a Misdemeanor Offense of Driving Without a License, even if it is a charge which can also be charged as an infraction, you will be required to appear in court or a Warrant may be issued for your arrest. However, if you hire an attorney, they may appear for you, pursuant to California Penal Code (CPC) 977.
If you are able to get a license and show Proof of Correction, it may be possible for the charge of CVC 12500 – Driving Without a License, to be reduced from a Misdemeanor to an Infraction, or even potentially dismissed. This type of correction does not guarantee that the charges will be Reduced or Dismissed, but it is certainly beneficial and will minimize your risk of being cited for the same violation again.
If you are cited, charged, or arrested for a violation of CVC 12500 – Driving Without a License, either as a Misdemeanor or as an Infraction, it is important to be aware of all of your rights and the defenses available to you in your particular situation. Do not rest on your rights, contact The Law Offices of Bryan R. Kazarian for a consultation
