Consequences of a License Suspension in Wisconsin and Beyond

Driving with a suspended license can lead to severe consequences, both in Wisconsin and in other states like Texas. The procedures and outcomes vary widely depending on the state, the number of offenses, and the actions of the arresting officer.

Wisconsin: A Fingerprintable Offense with Jail Time

When you get pulled over with a suspended license in Wisconsin, it's considered a fingerprintable offense. This means that you must be fingerprinted, and you will be placed into custody. Here's what happens if you are involved in this situation:

First Offense

Arrest: You will be arrested, and your car will most likely be impounded. Police Station: You will be taken to a police cell and given a date to attend court. Bail: You may be released on bail. Court Trial: At the court trial, you will face hefty fines and possibly community service.

Multiple Offenses

Immediate Arrest and Impound: Similar to the first offense, but the situation escalates. Police Station and Appearance in Court: Within 48 hours, you will need to appear before a judge upon orders. Probable Transfer to Prison: If you can't bond out, you may be transferred to prison to wait for a trial. Long Wait for Trial and Possible Early Release: Due to waiting time, you may already serve the sentence before the trial, and you might be released upon conviction.

In Wisconsin, the budget situation has influenced how the law is applied. Nowadays, traffic officers may be more inclined to issue a ticket for driving with a suspended license rather than giving a polite warning, due to the need for revenue.

Texas: Direct to Jail for Suspended License

In Texas, things are relatively straightforward. If you are driving with a suspended license, you are charged and will be taken directly to jail. If you can bond out, you will go to trial and face additional jail time along with a prolonged driving suspension.

Arrest and Impoundment

Immediate Arrest and Car Impoundment: If you are pulled over, you will be immediately arrested, and your car will be impounded. Appearance in Court: If you manage to bond out, you will need to appear in court for your trial. Prolonged Driving Suspension: You can expect your driving suspension to last much longer than it would in Wisconsin.

Varied Officer Discretion

The involvement of the arresting officer can make a significant difference in the outcome. In Wisconsin, the chances are high that you will be taken straight to jail. However, under certain conditions, a cop might let you go with a warning or even after towing your car.

Positive Outcomes

Occasionally, you might be lucky and have a situation where you only receive a summons to appear in court. This would be considered quite beneficial.

Delays and Misunderstandings

Misunderstandings can also play a role. For example, years ago, the author was released after a traffic stop because they didn't know their license was suspended due to a property tax bill from a place they had once lived.

Compliance with DMV requirements is also critical. One man in Wisconsin was suspended due to failing to prove his insurance policy to the DMV. Although he had proof in his car, the officer still impounded the vehicle due to the delay in responding to the DMV's letter.

Changes in the Law

The law has changed since then, and now tickets for this offense are less common. The passage of time and this particular incident led to a repeal of the law allowing for such offenses to be dealt with in this manner.

Conclusion

Driving with a suspended license can lead to serious consequences, including arrest, impoundment, and heavy fines. It's crucial to be aware of your licensing status and to address any issues that could lead to a suspension to avoid these potential pitfalls.

Understanding the laws and procedures in your state is essential, as they can vary greatly. Whether you are in Wisconsin or Texas, being informed can save you from unnecessary legal troubles and financial losses.