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Driving with an expired registration

On Behalf of | Nov 24, 2014 | Expired Registration

It’s the little things in life that catch up with us at the wrong time. When we don’t pay attention to the minor details in life, that is when it comes back to bite us. What happens when you are pulled over by the police for something as simple as driving with expired tags? Operating a motor vehicle with an expired tag/registration is a civil infraction and is considered a non-moving violation. 

The amount of the fine should be less than your average speeding ticket and it shouldn’t lead to any points on your license. That sounds harmless enough, but there can be more to it. If you get caught for driving with a registration that has been expired for more than six months, it’s a criminal charge. So when that second time you get stopped for the same offense occurs, you can go to jail for up to 60 days. Getting away with it once doesn’t mean it is over. You need to register your vehicle as soon as humanly possible. Timing is everything.

With the help of a skilled criminal defense attorney, you can avoid these legal issues. There are credible defenses to try when it comes to a charge of an expired tag or registration. One of the more common defenses is shifting the blame to the DMV. Perhaps there was an error on the department’s end. Unfortunately, being absentminded isn’t a suitable defense for this charge. Stay on top of all of your driving documents and expirations. You never know when one minor error or careless behavior on your part can land you in jail. 

Florida Statute 320.07(3)(c) is nothing to shrug off. Make sure to seek legal help if you ever find yourself in this situation.