Facing Charges for Operating an Uninsured Vehicle? Our Aggressive Criminal Defense Attorneys Are Here to Help
If you’ve been charged with operating an uninsured vehicle in Massachusetts, you’re likely feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about what comes next. These charges are more than just a minor inconvenience—they carry real penalties that can impact your license, finances, and even your criminal record. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, our dedicated team of criminal defense attorneys is ready to defend your rights with skill and experience. With offices conveniently located in Boston and Salem, we provide aggressive representation across Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk Counties.
Whether you’re in Boston, Brighton, West Roxbury, Chelsea, Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, Saugus, Cambridge, Somerville, Newton, Brookline, or Dedham, our criminal defense law firm has helped individuals just like you fight motor vehicle offense charges and protect their future. With a team that includes a former prosecutor, we bring a strong courtroom presence and a strategic approach based on insight from both sides of the legal process. We know how Massachusetts courts work, and we’re committed to taking your case seriously—because we understand how serious it is to you.
What Is “Operating an Uninsured Vehicle” in Massachusetts?
Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 90, Section 34J, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle in the Commonwealth without insurance. If you are caught driving a vehicle without the required insurance coverage, you can face criminal charges—not just civil penalties.
The law clearly states that anyone who operates or allows another to operate an uninsured motor vehicle on a public way or in a place where the public has access may be penalized. The penalties may include:
- A fine of at least $500 and as much as $5,000
- Imprisonment for up to one year
- Or both fine and imprisonment
In addition, you may face license suspension, vehicle impoundment, and increased insurance premiums. These consequences can have a lasting impact on your driving record, employment opportunities, and personal life.
Why You Need a Criminal Defense Attorney for This Charge
Many people believe that operating an uninsured vehicle is just a minor traffic violation, but the reality is that it is a criminal offense under Massachusetts law. A conviction can go on your criminal record and affect your future. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we understand that this may have been a simple oversight or a misunderstanding. We treat each case individually and work to uncover the details that can make a difference.
Our team has experience with motor vehicle offenses and works to protect clients from the harsh penalties that often come with these charges. Whether you were unaware your policy had lapsed or you were borrowing a vehicle you assumed was covered, we explore every legal defense available to reduce or dismiss your charges.
Areas We Serve
Our criminal defense law firm represents individuals charged with operating an uninsured vehicle throughout Eastern Massachusetts. With offices in Boston and Salem, we are well-positioned to serve clients across:
- Suffolk County – Boston, Brighton, Chelsea, West Roxbury
- Essex County – Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, Saugus
- Middlesex County – Cambridge, Somerville, Newton
- Norfolk County – Brookline, Dedham, Quincy
Our knowledge of local courts, judges, and procedures allows us to tailor our defense strategy to the unique characteristics of each courthouse and jurisdiction.
How Our Criminal Defense Attorneys Can Help
As Massachusetts criminal defense attorneys, we take a comprehensive and proactive approach to your defense. Our attorneys begin by reviewing the details of your case and any evidence the Commonwealth may use. We evaluate whether law enforcement adhered to the correct protocols and upheld your rights. If any errors were made, we push for evidence suppression or case dismissal.
We may also explore legal arguments such as:
- You were not the operator of the vehicle
- You were unaware that the vehicle was uninsured
- The vehicle was not being used on a public way as defined by law
- You had taken reasonable steps to maintain valid insurance
These details can make a critical difference in your case outcome.
Start Protecting Your Rights Today
Being charged with operating an uninsured vehicle is serious, but you don’t have to face it alone. The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson is ready to stand by you with focused, aggressive representation. Whether this is your first criminal charge or you’ve had prior issues, we take the time to listen, strategize, and advocate for your best outcome. Contact us now to set up a strategy session and learn how we can help you fight your motor vehicle offense charge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is operating an uninsured vehicle a criminal offense in Massachusetts?
Yes. Under M.G.L. c. 90 § 34J, operating an uninsured vehicle is a criminal charge, not just a traffic ticket. A conviction can carry fines, jail time, and license suspension.
What are the penalties for operating an uninsured vehicle in Massachusetts?
Penalties may include fines of $500 to $5,000, jail time of up to one year, or both. Your driver’s license may also be suspended by the Registry of Motor Vehicles.
Can a defense attorney help get this charge dismissed?
Yes. A qualified criminal defense attorney can evaluate your case and may be able to get the charges dismissed or reduced based on the facts, procedural issues, or legal defenses.
What should I do if I’ve been charged with this offense?
Contact a criminal defense law firm immediately. The sooner you have an attorney on your side, the more options you’ll have to resolve the case in your favor.
Does it matter if I didn’t know the car was uninsured?
Yes, your knowledge and intent can be important in defending the case. An attorney can help determine how to present this as part of your defense.