Do I Need a Lawyer for My Rideshare Administrative Appeal?

Dedicated Massachusetts Rideshare Appeals Attorney Helping Uber and Lyft Drivers Protect Their Livelihood

If you’ve been denied clearance to drive for Uber or Lyft in Massachusetts—or had your account suspended after a background check—you may be wondering if hiring a lawyer is worth it. After all, the appeal is “just administrative,” right?

Not exactly. Rideshare administrative appeals are often more complicated than they appear. Your ability to earn a living may depend on how well your appeal is prepared and presented. That’s why many drivers turn to the Law Office of Patrick J. Murphy to work with a trusted Boston rideshare appeals attorney who understands the legal, procedural, and strategic issues at play.

The Reality of the Rideshare Appeal Process

The Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) oversees the background check system that clears—or disqualifies—drivers for transportation network companies (TNCs) like Uber and Lyft. If you’re flagged by the DPU, you’ll receive a letter telling you that you’ve been disqualified based on a criminal or driving record issue. You have just 20 days to appeal the decision.

What many drivers don’t realize is that appealing is not as simple as just asking for a second look. To have a chance at winning your rideshare appeal, you may need to:

• Interpret DPU regulations and determine whether your record truly disqualifies you
• Gather official documents like certified court dockets or police reports
• Draft a legal argument showing why your offense is not disqualifying under current rules
• Provide evidence of resolution, rehabilitation, or error
• File your appeal within the deadline using the correct format

Missing a deadline or submitting the wrong paperwork can cost you the appeal—and your shot at driving again.

What a Boston Rideshare Appeals Attorney Can Do

When you hire a Boston rideshare appeals attorney, you’re not just getting someone to fill out forms. You’re getting a legal advocate who can:

• Analyze why your background check failed
• Identify whether the offense is legally disqualifying
• Challenge outdated or inaccurate records
• Communicate directly with the DPU or rideshare platform on your behalf
• Help you prepare written arguments and supporting evidence
• Represent you if a hearing is scheduled

Whether your case involves a recent criminal charge, an old conviction, or a misunderstanding, an attorney can help you frame the facts in the most persuasive way possible.

When Legal Representation Makes the Biggest Difference

Some drivers attempt to handle the process on their own—and in a few cases, that may be fine. But you should seriously consider hiring a lawyer if:

• You’ve been disqualified based on a charge that was dismissed, continued without a finding (CWOF), or sealed
• You’re unsure what part of your record triggered the disqualification
• You’re under active investigation or facing new criminal charges
• You previously applied and were denied, and now want to try again
• You depend on driving for income and need the strongest chance of success

The DPU isn’t going to guide you through the process. Neither will Uber or Lyft. If you’re not sure what to do, or if you’re overwhelmed by the paperwork and legal terms, a lawyer can save you time—and potentially your livelihood.

What About the Cost?

Many drivers are concerned about legal fees. But when you weigh that cost against lost income from weeks or months off the road, the investment often pays for itself. The Law Office of Patrick J. Murphy offers reasonable rates for rideshare appeals and provides a free consultation to explain your options before you commit to anything.

Talk to a Boston Rideshare Appeals Attorney Before You File

Don’t let a misunderstanding or old mistake keep you off the road. An administrative appeal is your opportunity to fight back—but only if you handle it the right way. Call the Law Office of Patrick J. Murphy today to speak with an experienced Boston rideshare appeals attorney who can help you file a strong appeal and get back to work. Reach us at (617) 367-0450 to schedule your free consultation.