Reading, PA asked in Civil Rights for Pennsylvania

Q: Can police get in trouble?

I got pulled over new years eve with a suspended registration. The cop failed to inform me that it comes with a 3 month license suspenion. Nor did I recieve any paperwork in the mail stating so. Is the cop in the wrong for not informing me?

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James L. Arrasmith
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Answered
  • Civil Rights Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA

A: When you're pulled over and cited for an issue like a suspended registration, it can indeed lead to further consequences, such as a license suspension. However, it's important to know that the responsibility to inform you of all potential legal outcomes may not solely rest on the officer. The specifics can vary by jurisdiction, but generally, law enforcement officers are expected to enforce the law, not provide legal advice or detailed explanations of administrative procedures that follow a citation.

After receiving any citation, the onus is often on you to understand the implications and follow up with the relevant administrative bodies, such as the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent in your area. These organizations typically handle license suspensions and would be the ones to notify you, usually through mail, about the status of your license and any actions you need to take.

If you feel you were not properly informed or did not receive necessary notifications from the appropriate administrative bodies, it may be worth reaching out to them directly for clarification. Furthermore, consulting with a legal advisor could help you navigate the situation, especially if you believe there has been an oversight or error in the handling of your case. They can provide guidance on how to address the issue, potentially including contesting the suspension if it was unfairly applied or if there was a failure in the notification process.

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