
Boston RMV Suspension Hearing Attorney
Defend Your Right to Drive in Massachusetts
If the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) has notified you of a license suspension—or you’ve already lost your license—you may have the right to a Registry hearing to contest the suspension or request reinstatement.
These hearings are often confusing, high-stakes, and intimidating if you go in unprepared.
At DeGiacomo & Mikhlin, P.C., we represent drivers across Massachusetts in RMV suspension hearings and Board of Appeals proceedings. Whether you're dealing with a breath test refusal, an immediate threat suspension, or a habitual traffic offender (HTO) designation, we’ll help you fight to keep or regain your driving privileges. Call Us Today!
What Is an RMV Suspension Hearing?
An RMV suspension hearing is an administrative review conducted by a Registry Hearing Officer to determine whether a suspension is valid—or whether you may be eligible for reinstatement or a hardship license.
Hearings may be held:
- At a designated RMV location (Boston, Worcester, Springfield, etc.)
- By phone
- In some cases, via Microsoft Teams (video software)
These are not court proceedings, but the outcome still has a major impact on your ability to drive. And in many cases, if you lose at the RMV, your only remaining option is an appeal to the Board of Appeals.


Common Suspension Types That Require RMV Hearings
>We represent clients at RMV hearings involving a wide range of suspension issues, including:
- Chemical Test Refusal (CTR) following an OUI arrest
- Chemical Test Failure (Breath Test over 0.08)
- Immediate Threat suspensions due to medical or safety concerns
- License fraud or identity violations
- Out-of-state suspension holds
- Junior Operator Law violations (JOL)
- Habitual Traffic Offender (HTO) reviews
- Drug conviction-related suspensions
- Unpaid citations or default convictions
In some cases, you’ll need an RMV hearing before you can apply for a hardship license through the Board of Appeals.
What Happens at a Suspension Hearing?
Here’s what you can typically expect at an RMV suspension hearing:
- Check-in and record review
You’ll provide identification and any requested documents. The Hearing Officer will pull your driving history and RMV record. - Presentation of your case
You may be asked questions, invited to present documents, or required to submit evidence (e.g., medical records, court documents, proof of program completion). - Decision
The Hearing Officer may issue a decision immediately or take the matter under advisement and notify you by mail.
While the setting is less formal than a courtroom, the hearing is still serious—and outcomes can vary widely depending on how well your case is prepared.

What Makes This Firm Different?
Feel Confident in Choosing Degiacomo & Mikhlin, P.C.
-
Available to Clients 24/7
-
Nearly a Decade of Legal Experience
-
Successfully Defended Hundreds of Clients
-
Former Prosecutors & Knows How That Side Thinks
-
Represented Clients in MA District, Superior, & Appellate Courts
Why You Need a Lawyer at Your RMV Hearing
You are not required to have legal representation at a Registry hearing—but having an experienced attorney dramatically improves your chances of success.
At DeGiacomo & Mikhlin, we help you:
- Understand your suspension type and legal options
- Identify and collect the documentation you need
- Prepare you to answer questions confidently and accurately
- Represent you at the hearing and argue your case
- Appeal the decision, if needed, to the Board of Appeals
We’ve successfully helped hundreds of clients avoid or reverse license suspensions and win hardship license approval by starting with a strong RMV hearing strategy. Contact us today for help.
FAQs About RMV Suspension Hearings in Massachusetts
Can I appeal a suspension right away?
In many cases, yes—but timing matters. For example, you have only 15 days to appeal a Chemical Test Refusal Suspension.
What happens if I lose the hearing?
You may be able to appeal to the RMV Board of Appeals, a separate body that can override RMV decisions. We represent clients at both levels.
Can I request a hardship license at the RMV hearing?
In limited cases, yes. Most hardship licenses must be granted through the Board of Appeals, but the RMV may issue some suspensions.
Do I need to bring anything to the hearing?
Yes— often you will need court documents, program completion certificates, medical evaluations, or letters of support. What you will need to brig will depend on the type of suspension. We’ll help you gather exactly what you need.
Let Us Fight for Your License
An RMV suspension doesn’t have to leave you stranded. With the right legal support, you may be able to avoid a suspension, reinstate your license, or secure a hardship license that lets you drive legally again.
Call to schedule a free consultation. Or fill out our contact form to get started
We’ll review your case, walk you through your options, and represent you at your suspension hearing with professionalism and confidence.
Explore related services: RMV Board of Appeals Representation, OUI License Suspensions.