Do I Need a Lawyer if My Uber or Lyft License is Suspended?

Written By: Matthew W. Peterson

Published: 05/29/2024

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If you are facing a rideshare (Uber or Lyft) license suspension in MA, you should hire a lawyer immediately. You may be able to appeal, and the attorney can work to get your license back as soon as possible.

Rideshare driving, whether for Uber, Lyft, or another transportation network company (TNC), has become a significant source of income for many individuals. However, the sudden suspension of your rideshare license can disrupt your livelihood and create a stressful situation. This blog post aims to provide clarity on whether you need a lawyer if your rideshare license is suspended, either due to driver complaints or pending criminal charges. By understanding the complexities of these scenarios and the role a lawyer can play, you can make an informed decision to protect your career and financial stability.

Understanding Rideshare License Suspensions

Suspension Due to Driver Complaints

One common reason for Uber or Lyft license suspensions in MA is driver complaints, but a lawyer can help. These complaints can range from minor issues to severe allegations that question your capability and safety as a driver. If your license is suspended for this reason, you might have the right to appeal the suspension through the Massachusetts TNC division. Here is a brief overview of the appeals process:

Notification: Upon suspension, you will receive a notification detailing the specific complaints against you.
Appeal Filing: You must file an appeal within 30 business days to contest the suspension.
Hearing: An administrative hearing will be conducted where you can present evidence and argue your case.

Suspension of Uber or Lyft License Due to Criminal Charges

If your rideshare license is suspended due to pending criminal charges, the process becomes more complicated. Generally, you must wait until your criminal charges are resolved before your license can be reinstated. The nature and severity of the charges will significantly influence the outcome and timeline of this process. Domestic violence, OUI, many larceny charges, as well as other charges, automatically suspend your license to operate an Uber or Lyft until the matter is dismissed. There is no right to appeal this suspension. Keep in mind that a continuance without a finding does count as a conviction for these purposes.

How a Lawyer Can Help Reinstate Your Rideshare License

Navigating the Appeals Process

When facing a suspension due to driver complaints, hiring a lawyer can be invaluable. Here’s how legal expertise can make a difference:

Case Preparation: A lawyer can help you gather evidence, prepare your defense, and craft a compelling argument to present at your hearing. They understand the nuances of TNC policies and regulations, which can be critical in contesting the suspension effectively.
Representation: Having a lawyer represent you at the hearing can improve your chances of success. They can cross-examine witnesses and challenge the evidence presented against you.
Experience: Legal professionals who specialize in rideshare license suspensions have a track record of handling similar cases. For instance, I have successfully helped numerous drivers get their licenses to operate an Uber or Lyft reinstated, including one case involving false allegations by a passenger and another involving a dismissed domestic violence complaint.

Resolving Criminal Charges

In cases where your license is suspended due to criminal charges, a criminal defense lawyer is essential. Here’s how they can assist:

Expedited Resolution: A skilled criminal defense lawyer can work to resolve your charges as quickly as possible, potentially negotiating plea deals or seeking dismissals to expedite the process.
Legal Strategy: They will develop a strategic defense to protect your rights and minimize the impact of the charges on your life and career.
Reinstatement Assistance: Once your charges are resolved, a lawyer can help you navigate the process of reinstating your rideshare license, ensuring all necessary steps are taken promptly.

Real-Life Case Examples of How a Lawyer can Help if You’re Facing an Uber or Lyft Suspension in MA

False Allegations

One of our clients, a rideshare driver, faced suspension due to false allegations made by a passenger. The driver, who relied heavily on rideshare income to support their family, was devastated by the suspension. With legal representation, we were able to gather evidence disproving the allegations and successfully appealed the suspension. The driver’s license was reinstated, allowing them to continue their work without further disruption.

Dismissed Domestic Violence Complaint

Another client faced suspension due to a domestic violence complaint, which was later dismissed. This driver, too, depended on their rideshare income to make ends meet. Through diligent legal work, we expedited the resolution of the criminal charges and assisted in the reinstatement of the client’s rideshare license, enabling them to return to their livelihood swiftly.

Conclusion

The suspension of a Uber or Lyft license in MA, whether due to driver complaints or pending criminal charges, can have a profound impact on your life, and you should hire a lawyer immediately. While navigating this complex process alone can be daunting, hiring an attorney provides you with the expertise and support needed to effectively contest the suspension or resolve criminal charges promptly.

By seeking legal assistance, you can increase your chances of reinstating your rideshare license and ensuring continuity in your professional life. Don’t let a suspension jeopardize your livelihood—reach out to a qualified attorney and take the necessary steps to protect your career.

For those in Massachusetts facing such challenges, our team has extensive experience as Uber/Lyft suspension attorneys. Contact us today to discuss your case and explore how we can assist you in getting back on the road.