Complaint Regulatory Suspensions in Massachusetts

The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) imposes complaint regulatory license and registration suspensions for a variety of reasons. These suspensions serve to compel drivers to appear at a hearing before an RMV hearings officer. If a driver fails to attend, the Registry will indefinitely revoke their license until they appear and satisfy the RMV’s requirements.

Common Reasons for Complaint Regulatory Suspensions

Allowing an Unlicensed or Suspended Driver to Operate Your Vehicle

Under Melanie’s Law, it is a criminal offense to knowingly allow someone whose license is suspended or revoked to operate your vehicle. Even if you are not criminally charged, the RMV can still suspend your vehicle’s registration if law enforcement reports that an unlicensed driver was operating your car. This could result in the revocation of both your registration and your driver’s license for up to one year.

Improper Vehicle Registration

Massachusetts residents are required to register their vehicles in the state. Some residents attempt to register their vehicles out of state to avoid higher Massachusetts insurance costs. This practice is illegal, and if the RMV determines that a resident has improperly registered their vehicle elsewhere, it can result in a complaint regulatory suspension and potential fines.

Out-of-State DUI Reporting

Recently, the RMV has been issuing complaint regulatory suspensions to force drivers to provide documentation regarding out-of-state DUI offenses. The goal is to add these offenses to the driver’s Massachusetts record, often leading to automatic license suspensions. However, many of these suspensions can be appealed, and legal representation may help reduce or reverse them.

Ignition Interlock Violations

If you are required to have an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) and receive a license without the mandatory interlock restriction, the RMV may issue a complaint regulatory suspension. Additionally, violations related to missed rolling re-tests, false positive alcohol readings, or improper use of the IID may also lead to hearings and potential license revocation.

What to Do if You Receive a Complaint Regulatory Suspension

If you receive a complaint regulatory suspension letter from MassDOT, it is crucial to act quickly. These suspensions can lead to further license revocations or restrictions, and failing to address them will result in an indefinite suspension of your driving privileges.

You are entitled to a hearing at the RMV and can have legal representation at this hearing. An experienced attorney can help you:

• Determine the reason for the suspension before your hearing
• Gather the necessary documentation to support your case
• Advocate on your behalf to prevent or reduce the suspension

Ignoring a complaint regulatory letter will result in the automatic suspension of your license and right to drive in Massachusetts. If your license is suspended, you will need to pay a reinstatement fee and satisfy all RMV requirements before you can regain your driving privileges.

For assistance with a complaint regulatory hearing, contact The Law Office of Brian Simoneau, P.C. immediately at (508) 625-5776 to discuss your options and ensure that your rights are protected.