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Attorney Brian Simoneau is a great lawyer. He is very versed on the current laws and he will help you convey a well organized winning case. I would highly recommend him.
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Massachusetts License Reinstatement Hearings

If you’re seeking to reinstate your driver’s license in Massachusetts after a DUI suspension, you must go through a license reinstatement hearing at a full-service branch of the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV). Even if you’ve served the full suspension period, reinstatement is not automatic, and the hearing serves multiple critical functions. Understanding the process and being well-prepared can significantly impact the outcome.

The Purpose of the Reinstatement Hearing

The primary goal of the reinstatement hearing is to ensure that there are no unresolved issues that would prevent you from getting your license back. The hearings officer assigned to your case will review your driving history, both in Massachusetts and other states, and check for any outstanding suspensions, revocations, or blocks in the National Driver Register (NDR). The NDR is a national repository that tracks driving records across states, and any issues flagged there will need to be resolved before your license can be reinstated.

During the hearing, the RMV will thoroughly examine your record to ensure that all DUI convictions and alcohol program assignments are accounted for. If any out-of-state DUI incidents are discovered, they will be treated as if they occurred in Massachusetts, which could extend your suspension or trigger a new one. This review is comprehensive, and any discrepancies or missing information will be addressed, potentially impacting the reinstatement process.

Discovery of Missing DUI Convictions

In some cases, DUI convictions might not appear on your Massachusetts driving record, even though they exist in court or criminal records. If a hearings officer uncovers such a “missing” DUI during your reinstatement hearing, the RMV will add it to your record. This addition could lead to a new suspension or extend an existing one, and may also impose additional requirements, such as the installation of an ignition interlock device.

Sometimes, the hearings officer might notice indicators on your record, such as “NDR-Chem test refuse” or “NDR – Admin. Per Se,” suggesting an out-of-state DUI that isn’t fully documented in the Massachusetts RMV records. If this happens, you may be required to obtain certified documents from the relevant state to clarify the incident. Depending on the findings, your reinstatement could be delayed, or additional penalties could be imposed.

Preparing for Your Reinstatement Hearing

Given the thoroughness of the RMV’s review process, it’s crucial to prepare for your reinstatement hearing by ensuring that your driving record is accurate and complete. Before your hearing, download a copy of your driving record and review it for any discrepancies. Correcting errors or obtaining necessary documentation in advance can prevent unexpected delays or complications during the hearing.

Hiring an RMV lawyer to represent you during the hearing is strongly recommended. An experienced lawyer can help navigate the complexities of the reinstatement process, ensuring that your rights are protected and that all relevant information is presented accurately.

The Consequences of the Hearing

The outcome of your reinstatement hearing depends largely on the completeness and accuracy of your driving record and the findings of the RMV hearings officer. If your record is clear and no unresolved issues are found, your license may be reinstated. However, if additional DUI incidents are discovered or if there are outstanding issues in the NDR, your reinstatement could be denied or delayed, and further penalties could be imposed.

It’s important to note that even if you are not applying for a hardship license but rather seeking full reinstatement after serving your suspension, the process remains the same. The RMV will conduct the same thorough review of your driving history, and any issues will need to be addressed before your license can be reinstated.

Get an Attorney On Your Side

Massachusetts license reinstatement hearings are a critical step in regaining your driving privileges after a DUI suspension. The process is thorough, with the RMV carefully reviewing your driving record to ensure that all issues are resolved. Being prepared, understanding what to expect, and considering legal representation can make a significant difference in the outcome of your hearing, helping you navigate the complexities of the reinstatement process and move forward with your life.

If you are preparing for a license reinstatement hearing, call the Law Office of Brian Simoneau, P.C. at 508-625-5776 to protect your driving privileges and future.