Motor Vehicle Crimes FAQ

Skilled Boston Criminal Defense Lawyer Committed to Protecting the Rights of Clients Charged with Motor Vehicle Offenses

Not every traffic case is a simple speeding ticket. In Massachusetts, certain motor vehicle offenses are treated as crimes—and that means you could be facing jail time, license suspension, steep fines, and a permanent criminal record. Whether you’re accused of leaving the scene of an accident, driving recklessly, or using a vehicle without permission, it’s important to take the charge seriously. At the Law Office of Patrick J. Murphy, we defend clients across Massachusetts who have been charged with motor vehicle crimes. With over 30 years of experience as a Boston motor vehicle crimes lawyer, Attorney Murphy is ready to answer your questions and help you confront the case against you with a strong defense.

What counts as a motor vehicle crime in Massachusetts?

Vehicle crimes go beyond civil traffic violations and involve behavior that violates the criminal code. Some of the most common charges include reckless driving, leaving the scene of an accident, operating a vehicle without authority, and driving with a suspended license. These cases are prosecuted in district court and carry criminal penalties.

What happens if I’m charged with leaving the scene of an accident?

Massachusetts law treats hit-and-run charges seriously. If you’re accused of leaving after causing property damage or personal injury, you could face fines, jail time, and automatic license suspension. Even if the damage or injury was minor, the law requires you to stop and provide your information. The penalties increase sharply if someone was hurt.

Can I be charged with reckless driving even if there was no accident?

Yes. Reckless driving, or operating to endanger, does not require a crash or injury. Police can issue this charge based on excessive speed, weaving through traffic, road rage, or any conduct they believe put others at risk. The law is subjective, so having an attorney challenge the officer’s observations can make a big difference.

Is unauthorized use of a vehicle the same as car theft?

No. Unauthorized use generally involves taking or using a vehicle without the owner’s permission, but without the intent to permanently steal it. It’s a serious misdemeanor offense and can still result in jail time and a criminal record. It often comes up in situations involving borrowed cars or disputes between acquaintances.

Will I lose my license if I’m convicted of a motor vehicle crime?

In many cases, yes. Certain offenses carry mandatory license suspensions imposed by the RMV in addition to any criminal penalties. These suspensions can last from 60 days to several years, depending on the charge and your driving history. Your lawyer can help you fight the charge and, in some cases, request a hardship license.

Do I need a lawyer for a first offense?

Yes. Even if this is your first time facing a criminal charge, a conviction for a motor vehicle crime can have lasting consequences. It can affect your insurance rates, driving privileges, and employment opportunities. A lawyer can help you explore alternatives like pretrial diversion, reduced charges, or a not-guilty verdict.

How does the court process work for motor vehicle crimes in Boston?

Most of these cases begin in Boston Municipal Court. You’ll first appear for an arraignment, where the charges are formally read. Depending on the circumstances, your case may be resolved quickly or proceed through motions and, potentially, trial. The sooner you hire a defense attorney, the more control you’ll have over the outcome.

What if I didn’t know I broke the law?

Some motor vehicle crimes, like leaving the scene or operating after suspension, can occur because of a misunderstanding. If you didn’t know there was an injury, didn’t realize your license was suspended, or believed you had permission to use a car, those facts may be used to challenge the intent element of the charges against you.

Can these charges be sealed from my record?

Eventually, yes. If the case is dismissed or results in a not-guilty verdict, you may be eligible to seal the record immediately. If you’re convicted, you’ll typically need to wait three to five years depending on the offense. Sealing your record can help reduce the impact your arrest has on any future job and housing applications.

How can the Law Office of Patrick J. Murphy help?

Attorney Murphy understands how these charges are handled by local judges, prosecutors, and the RMV. Whether it’s negotiating a favorable plea, challenging weak evidence, or taking your case to trial, he brings nearly three decades of courtroom experience to every case. He’ll work closely with you to protect your record, your license, and your future.

If you’ve been charged with a motor vehicle crime in Boston, don’t wait until it’s too late. Call the Law Office of Patrick J. Murphy at (617) 367-0450 to schedule a free and confidential consultation.