Can a Driver’s License be Revoked or Suspended Based on a Criminal Conviction Unrelated to Driving?Yes. Some states have laws that allow a driver’s license to be revoked or suspended given if there is a conviction for an unrelated crime. For example, in Georgia, a driver’s license may be suspended if one is convicted of marijuana possession. Is Revocation/Suspension of a Driver’s License Due to Unrelated Charges Considered a Violation of Due Process?Not necessarily. Most states allow laws that revoke or suspend licenses due to unrelated criminal convictions, so long as the law serves a legitimate government purpose. While some states limit the term “legitimate” to auto usage and public driving, others interpret the word much more broadly. For example, Florida law allows revocation of a license due to cocaine possession, meant primarily to deter illegal drug use. Do License Revocation/Suspension Laws Targeting Minors Receive Special Consideration?Yes, since most courts consider restricting the illegal activity of minors a legitimate interest. As a result, many license revocation laws that may otherwise be deemed unconstitutional for adults can be considered valid if applied to minors. Take for instance a law suspending licenses based on one’s possession of alcohol. Though such a law seems completely arbitrary when applied to adults, it is definitely feasible for minors who are below drinking age. How Can a Lawyer Help Me?If your driver’s license has been either revoked or suspended due to a criminal conviction unrelated to auto usage, you should contact an attorney to help assert your rights. A lawyer can inform you of local state and city laws concerning license revocation/suspension, as well as recent attempts to overthrow such laws. Because “legitimate government purpose” is an amorphous standard, an attorney is essential in finding out how a court may potential rule on your particular case. |
