DWLS First Offense in Florida

[MegaEWS]

My question involves a driver's license issued by the State of: Florida

I knowingly drove with my license suspended for the first time; since then I have had it reinstated and I'm approaching my court date in several weeks.

Doing some research, this is my first offense and I'm not a habitual offender. If I'm reading correctly over the statutes I believe that I fall under s. 775.083 and will be charged with a second degree misdemeanor, I can only be fined no more than $500 plus court costs.

Is this correct, am I over looking something?

Do I need representation or can I just go in and face this alone without a lawyer and not exceed the fines above?

Any recommendations on getting a reduced fine?

Thanks in advance.

[Mr. Knowitall]

The notice from the court should indicate the crime charged. If you have been charged with violating Sec. 775.083, then that's what you're charged with. You could be charged with, for example, a similar misdemeanor.

Your penalty can include the statutory fine, court costs, and other miscellaneous court assessments.

Why was your license suspended? If, for example, it was due to drunk driving it would make sense for you to be talking to a lawyer.