SEXTON LAW
CDL License Protection & Speeding Ticket Defense in Northern Kentucky
Keep Your Career on the Road with Proven CDL Defense from Shannon Sexton Law
When your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is at risk, everything is on the line—your job, your income, your future. Kentucky law enforces strict penalties for CDL violations, including automatic suspensions for speeding 26 MPH or more over the limit. Whether you're facing a roadside citation, a DUI investigation, or an out-of-state violation, Sexton Law provides fast, aggressive defense focused on one goal: protecting your license.
We represent commercial drivers in Covington, Newport, Florence, Erlanger, Burlington, and Independence, as well as across all of Kenton, Campbell, and Boone Counties. Our firm understands the unique legal pressure CDL holders face, and we move quickly to file hearings, suppress evidence, and fight for outcomes that keep you behind the wheel.
Protecting Your CDL — and Your Livelihood
Commercial drivers don’t get the benefit of second chances. One speeding ticket, one equipment violation, or one misunderstood roadside stop can trigger an automatic suspension that sidelines your career. At Shannon Sexton Law, we treat your CDL like what it is—your livelihood. We act fast, file aggressively, and build smart defenses that stop suspensions before they start. Whether you're an over-the-road trucker, a local delivery driver, or a CDL holder managing airport or interstate routes, we’re here to protect your license, your reputation, and your future.
Why Drivers Trust Sexton Law with CDL Defense
Suspension Avoidance Strategies That Work- We consistently prevent CDL suspensions by filing timely hearing requests, stay orders, and compelling legal motions. Our interventions often stop license suspensions before they start.
Minimized Court Time for Working Drivers- We know your schedule doesn't allow repeated court dates. That’s why we work to excuse your appearances whenever possible—filing driver excusals, negotiating remotely, and handling court on your behalf.
Deep Knowledge of CDL Regulations- We don’t just know Kentucky criminal law—we understand CDL-specific rules, Transportation Cabinet procedures, and the small details that make a big difference in administrative hearings.
Former Prosecutor Advantage- Shannon Sexton spent years prosecuting felony cases across Northern Kentucky. Today, he uses that insider knowledge to dismantle the state’s arguments against commercial drivers.
Clear Pricing and Quick Access- Sexton Law offers flat-fee CDL representation and free consultations, so you can get the help you need, fast, without surprise costs or delays.
WHAT WE DO
What Kinds of CDL Cases Do We Handle?
In Kentucky, driving 26 MPH or more over the speed limit results in an automatic CDL suspension—even on a first offense. The penalty ranges from 60 to 180 days off the road, and there’s no warning letter or grace period. We move fast to protect your license. Sexton Law will:
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File administrative appeals within 10 days to stop suspension deadlines
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Submit emergency stay orders to delay enforcement
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Challenge radar, LIDAR, and officer procedures to attack the citation itself
Commercial drivers are held to a stricter blood alcohol threshold. If you're operating under a CDL:
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A BAC of just 0.04% is enough to disqualify your license
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Underage CDL holders (under 21) face a 30-day suspension for any BAC over 0.02%
We challenge every detail—traffic stop legality, field sobriety performance, machine accuracy, and more—to fight these career-ending charges.
Got a ticket outside Kentucky? That out-of-state infraction can still trigger a Kentucky CDL suspension through the Commercial Driver’s License Information System (CDLIS). We can:
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Represent you in reciprocal hearings to prevent license hits
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Block demerit point transfers
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Challenge reporting or timing errors that put your driving status at risk
If your license is already suspended or in danger, we guide you through:
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Preparing for administrative hearings with witness testimony and supporting documents
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Filing appeals and petitions for reinstatement with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet
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Completing compliance steps, training certifications, and legal filings needed to restore driving privileges
Tickets in TSA zones, construction zones, and other special enforcement areas often carry enhanced penalties. Sexton Law defends against:
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Improper signage or jurisdiction claims in airport property cases (CVG and others)
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Work zone and school zone violations that carry CDL-specific consequences
Alleged moving violations in areas with elevated enforcement thresholds
CDL holders are required to follow strict regulations on rest breaks, drive time, and logbook accuracy. Violations—whether due to clerical errors, digital ELD discrepancies, or roadside audits—can lead to citations, points against your license, and employer discipline. We help drivers defend against:
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Logbook falsification or incomplete entries
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Hours-of-Service violations, including over-limit drive time
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ELD compliance disputes involving malfunctioning or misread devices
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Audits or inspections that trigger license points or warnings
The Real Cost of a CDL Violation
A single citation might seem like just another stop on the road—but for CDL holders, it can be the beginning of a cascade of consequences. Unlike standard driver’s license penalties, commercial driving violations carry immediate and often career-ending effects. Understanding what’s at stake is critical—and taking legal action fast is the only way to protect your livelihood.
Speeding 26+ MPH Over the Limit
Penalty: Automatic CDL suspension for 60 to 180 days
Impact: This is one of the most misunderstood threats to commercial drivers. In Kentucky, if you're clocked at 26 MPH or more over the speed limit, your CDL is automatically suspended—even if it's your first offense and even if you have a clean record. No warnings. No second chances. A suspension of this kind can instantly terminate employment, stall route assignments, and put your DOT record in jeopardy. Sexton Law intervenes within hours of citation to file stay requests, suppress faulty radar evidence, and negotiate reductions that save your license.
CDL DUI (BAC > 0.04%)
Penalty: Minimum 1-year CDL disqualification
Impact: CDL holders are held to a stricter alcohol standard than standard drivers. A blood alcohol content of just 0.04% can trigger a mandatory one-year disqualification—meaning your CDL is gone for an entire year. If the incident occurs while hauling hazardous materials, that suspension can extend to three years. We challenge every detail of the traffic stop, field sobriety, and testing process to keep you in compliance and on the job.
Underage CDL Driver (BAC > 0.02%)
Penalty: 30-day suspension
Impact: Young commercial drivers under 21 face one of the strictest thresholds in the country. Even trace amounts of alcohol can result in disqualification. Many drivers in this age group are new to the profession, and even a 30-day suspension can end training programs, apprenticeships, or onboarding with national carriers. Sexton Law focuses on dismissing minor BAC findings through lab analysis challenges and evidentiary suppression.
Out-of-State Violations (CDLIS Reciprocity Hits)
Penalty: Suspension or disqualification under interstate reporting systems
Impact: Tickets you receive in other states follow you home through the Commercial Driver’s License Information System (CDLIS). Even if the ticket is minor in another state, it can result in major consequences under Kentucky’s licensing laws. We intervene by blocking demerit point transfers, correcting reporting errors, and representing you in reciprocity hearings when necessary—preventing a ticket from hundreds of miles away from taking you off the road here.
If you need a criminal defense attorney in Covington, you’ve come to the right place. We confront each challenge directly and with determination, ensuring that we consistently achieve and deliver outstanding results for our clients.
Recent Case Victory:
We achieved a positive result for our client. They were stopped by police with 28 grams of marijuana, $2,000 in cash, and a loaded firearm.
We filed a motion to suppress the evidence. Our client rejected a plea deal, and the judge ruled that the stop was illegal. As a result, the court dismissed all charges. At Sexton Law, we do not accept settlements when your future is on the line. Let us fight for you with a defense strategy designed to protect your rights and preserve your freedom.
If you need a DUI defense attorney in Covington, you’ve come to the right place. We face each challenge head-on and with determination. This approach ensures we consistently achieve and deliver excellent results for our clients.
Recent Case Victory:
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Charge: DUI Assault
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Result: Felony conviction avoided; no jail time
My client was charged with a DUI Assault. He faced a life-long felony conviction and potentially ten to twenty years in prison. The prosecution’s theory was that my client struck a pedestrian with his vehicle causing substantial injury. When authorities arrived, it was determined that my client was under the influence of alcohol. My investigation and preparation revealed through corroborating witness testimony that my client had no opportunity to stop his vehicle. The pedestrian crossed in front of my client’s vehicle illegally. This left my client no time to react, despite his intoxication levels. This investigation and resulting evidence resulted in my client avoiding any felony conviction and receiving no jail time.
If you’re looking for the best accident lawyer in Covington, our record speaks for itself.
Real Client Testimonial:
“I was injured in a serious crash and didn't know where to turn. Shannon and his team handled everything while I recovered. They negotiated hard and got me a settlement that covered every dollar of medical expenses—and more.”
– J.B., Covington
A Trial Attorney with a Family Law Background
As a law student at the University of Kentucky College of Law, Shannon focused on Family Law. He had the privilege of learning from Professor Louise E. Graham, a co-author of "Kentucky Practice: Domestic Relations Law," which is regarded as one of the most authoritative texts on Family Law in Kentucky. In essence, Shannon studied under the expert who literally wrote the book on this subject. Additionally, he has contributed to the Kentucky Law Journal as a published author in Family and Domestic Law.
HOW IT WORKS
At Sexton Law Firm
STEP 1
Free, No-Obligation Case Evaluation
We start with a confidential consultation to understand your situation, answer your questions, and determine the best course of action—whether it’s a criminal charge, injury claim, or family matter.
STEP 2
Aggressive, Strategic Representation
Once retained, we build a tailored legal strategy, gathering evidence, filing motions, and preparing every case as if it’s going to trial—because strong preparation delivers strong results.
STEP 3
Results-Driven Resolution
We fight relentlessly for the best possible outcome—whether that means negotiating a fair settlement, protecting your rights in court, or guiding you through life-changing legal decisions with confidence.
WHERE WE ARE
Serving Covington, Newport, and the Tri‑County Region
We understand that legal challenges feel overwhelming. That’s why we provide personalized attention and strategic advocacy at every stage. Sexton Law excels at navigating the complexities of the legal system—no matter your issue, we protect your rights.
We proudly serve Kenton County, Campbell County, and Boone County, including Covington, Newport, Florence, Fort Thomas, Erlanger, and Independence. We also accept select cases in Cincinnati, Ohio, especially in medical malpractice, personal injury, and criminal defense.
Protect Your Driving Privileges — Act Now
If you've been arrested for DUI in Northern Kentucky, it’s critical to act fast. Kentucky has strict time limits for filing DUI appeals and challenging license suspensions. Our team can request an administrative hearing on your behalf to prevent your license from being automatically suspended.
With Shannon Sexton Law by your side, you’ll have an experienced team fighting for you every step of the way. Whether you are dealing with your first DUI offense or a repeat charge, we can create a defense strategy that fits your case. If you or a loved one is facing a DUI charge in Covington, Newport, or Florence, Shannon Sexton Law offers free consultations. Let us evaluate your case, answer your questions, and guide you through the legal process.
Call (859) 431-9999 now for a free consultation
Visit us at our Covington, KY office
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