Boston Immediate Threat Suspension Lawyer – Fight Back and Restore Your License
If the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) has suddenly suspended your license due to an Immediate Threat complaint, you're probably feeling shocked and confused—and wondering what to do next.
At DeGiacomo & Mikhlin, P.C., we represent clients across Massachusetts who’ve had their licenses revoked without warning under this vague and often misused policy. We understand how urgent and devastating this kind of suspension can be—and we know how to fight it.
What Is an Immediate Threat Suspension in Massachusetts?
An Immediate Threat suspension (also known as a Medical Revocation) allows the RMV to immediately revoke your driver's license if it receives information suggesting you pose a danger to public safety.
The RMV typically receives these reports from police officers, however, they can also be filed from medical professionals.
Once the report is filed, your license can be suspended immediately—without a hearing or prior notice.
Common Reasons for Immediate Threat Suspensions
These suspensions are based on allegations, not convictions. You do not need to be arrested or charged to lose your license under this rule. You don’t even need to have received a citation for a driving violation.
Common scenarios include:
- Involvement in a serious crash and suspected medical impairment
- Allegations of operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol (OUI)
- Reports of erratic or dangerous driving
- Allegations of cognitive decline or dementia
- Uncontrolled seizures or fainting episodes
- Mental health concerns raised by police or medical personnel
This type of suspension is indefinite—it doesn’t have a set end date, and your license stays suspended until you take action to appeal or petition for reinstatement.
How to Fight an Immediate Threat Suspension
You have two main options to challenge an Immediate Threat suspension:
- Request a Medical Clearance and Reinstatement Through the RMV
This path requires:
- Clearance from a physician, neurologist, or psychiatrist (depending on the issue)
- Completion of required medical forms
- RMV review and approval for reinstatement
However, this process can be slow, frustrating, and is often denied without legal support.
2. File an Appeal with the RMV Board of Appeals
This is often the most effective way to fight the suspension. You must:
- File a petition with the Board and pay a $50 filing fee
- Gather documentation that disproves or addresses the complaint
- Appear at a formal hearing (typically these are done virtually)
- Present your case and request reinstatement
We can help you decide which route makes the most sense—and build the strongest case for reinstatement.
What Makes This Firm Different?
Feel Confident in Choosing Degiacomo & Mikhlin, P.C.
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Available to Clients 24/7
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Nearly a Decade of Legal Experience
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Successfully Defended Hundreds of Clients
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Former Prosecutors & Knows How That Side Thinks
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Represented Clients in MA District, Superior, & Appellate Courts
Why Hire an Attorney for an Immediate Threat Suspension?
Because the stakes are high and the process is opaque.
Immediate Threat suspensions are broad, discretionary, and often based on incomplete or exaggerated reports. Without a clear plan, your license could remain suspended for months or even years.
Our firm helps by:
- Requesting your RMV and police records to understand the complaint
- Coordinating with your healthcare providers to obtain proper documentation
- Preparing and filing your appeal or reinstatement request
- Representing you at the Board of Appeals hearing
- Making sure every form, deadline, and detail is handled correctly
With our help, you’ll be taken seriously—and have a real shot at getting your license back.
Client Success Stories
Case Example: A senior driver was in a one car accident after falling asleep while driving. Although she only received a warning by the police for a marked lanes violation, the police filed for an immediate threat and her license was revoked without warning. We helped her obtain an evaluation from her doctor, filed a successful petition, and had her license reinstated.
Case Example: A client who was arrested for OUI drugs received an immediate threat from the arresting officer. We worked with her to get all the necessary medical documentation together and represented her at the Board of Appeals. We were able to demonstrate that she was not a risk and her license was reinstated within the week.
FAQs About Immediate Threat Suspensions
How long does an Immediate Threat suspension last?
There’s no fixed length. The suspension remains in place until the RMV agrees to reinstate your license—or the Board of Appeals orders it.
Can I drive while I wait for the hearing?
No. Your license is suspended until you are officially reinstated. Driving during this period is considered Operating After Suspension and carries criminal penalties.
What kind of documentation do I need to get my license back?
This depends on the reason for the suspension, but typically includes medical evaluations, clearance letters, proof of stability or treatment, and sometimes additional tests or logs.
Can I get a hardship license while under an Immediate Threat suspension?
No. You must resolve or lift the suspension entirely—hardship licenses are not available for Immediate Threat revocations.
I also have a criminal case. Can I get my license back during the court process? Unlikely. Typically, you must resolve the related criminal case (either by trial or plea) prior to the RMV reinstating your license. However, in certain circumstances the Board may not make you wait for the criminal case to be over before ordering your license to be restored.
Take Action Today—Don’t Let a Suspension Derail Your Life
An Immediate Threat suspension can feel like a dead end—but it doesn’t have to be. With the right legal support, many drivers are able to successfully fight back and get their licenses reinstated.
Call DeGiacomo & Mikhlin, P.C. today for a free consultation OR fill out our contact form to get started. We’ll review your situation, explain your options, and build a strategy to get you driving legally again.
Also see our related services: RMV Appeals Representation, Hardship Licenses, License Suspension Defense.