Non-Driving Related Criminal Conviction Suspensions

In Massachusetts, convictions for certain offenses, which have absolutely nothing to do with driving or motor vehicles will result in automatic license suspensions. Massachusetts criminal defense lawyers should be aware of these offenses and the consequences associated with pleading guilty or being convicted. All of these suspensions are automatically imposed as soon as the clerk’s office of the court notifies the suspension unit of the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles.

Of the approximately 65 ways to lose your license or right to drive in Massachusetts, the following violations, which have nothing to do with driving, are examples of offenses which will result in a mandatory and automatic license suspension, upon conviction: theft, concealment, or vandalism of a motor vehicle or trailer, tagging (spray painting), drug violations (e.g. possession, possession with intent, distribution, trafficking.) Procurement of alcohol for a minor, being a minor in possession of alcohol, and possession of a fake id.

When deciding whether or not to plead out to any one of the above-listed offenses, it is important to realize that a guilty plea or finding will result in the loss of your driver’s license. In some cases, it may be possible to get a hardship license from either the Registry of Motor Vehicles or the RMV Board of Appeals.