Rideshare Drivers Facing Criminal Charges

Experienced Boston Criminal Defense Attorney Defending the Rights of Uber & Lyft Drivers

If you drive for Uber or Lyft in Massachusetts, a single criminal charge can threaten your ability to earn a living. Even without a conviction, being accused of a crime may result in deactivation from the platform or denial of your DPU background clearance. For drivers in this situation, it’s not just about the court case—it’s about protecting your job, your reputation, and your future. At the Law Office of Patrick J. Murphy, you can speak with a Boston criminal defense attorney who understands both sides of the problem and how to help you solve it.

How Criminal Charges Affect Rideshare Drivers

Uber and Lyft have strict policies when it comes to driver background checks. But in Massachusetts, your driving privileges also depend on clearance from the Department of Public Utilities (DPU). The DPU can suspend your clearance—or deny it entirely—based on pending charges alone.

In many cases, the rideshare company will deactivate your account as soon as they’re notified of an arrest or criminal complaint. Even if the case is later dismissed, the damage to your livelihood may already be done unless you act quickly.

Common Charges That Lead to Deactivation

Some of the most common offenses that lead to immediate suspension or denial include:

• Operating Under the Influence (OUI/DUI)
• Assault and battery (even without a weapon)
• Drug possession or distribution
• Larceny or theft-related charges
• Domestic violence allegations
• Leaving the scene of an accident
• Sex offenses, including indecent exposure or solicitation

Even if the alleged offense doesn’t directly involve your role as a driver, it can still result in a background flag or safety concern that removes you from the platform.

What Happens If I’m Charged While Driving for Uber or Lyft?

If you’re an active driver and are charged with a disqualifying offense, your account will likely be suspended while your case is pending. If you’re applying for clearance and a past charge is uncovered, you may be denied altogether.

At that point, you face two battles:

1. Fighting the criminal charge in court
2. Appealing your suspension or denial with the DPU or the rideshare company

Many drivers make the mistake of thinking that one will take care of the other. It won’t. You need to be proactive on both fronts to preserve your record and get back to driving.

Why You Need an Attorney Who Handles Both Sides

You don’t just need a criminal defense attorney—you need someone who also knows how the rideshare appeal system works in Massachusetts. Patrick J. Murphy is both a seasoned Boston criminal defense attorney and an experienced rideshare appeals attorney, offering rideshare drivers the full spectrum of support.

He can help you:

• Represent you in criminal court and fight for a dismissal, reduction, or sealing of charges
• Communicate with Uber or Lyft on your behalf
• Challenge disqualifications based on inaccurate or outdated information
• File a formal DPU appeal with supporting documents
• Argue that pending charges do not justify suspension or denial under current regulations

Will a Dismissal Automatically Reinstate My Driving Privileges?

Not necessarily. Even if your case is dismissed or resolved without a conviction, Uber, Lyft, or the DPU may still require proof and formal requests to reinstate your access. In some cases, additional legal arguments or background documentation are needed to overturn the decision.

Can I Keep Driving While My Case Is Pending?

In most cases, no. Rideshare companies typically suspend your account as soon as they’re notified of the charge. However, fast action—especially when supported by legal representation—may improve your chances of limiting the duration of the suspension or obtaining early reinstatement after a favorable outcome in court.

Protect Your Job While You Protect Your Record

As a rideshare driver, your job depends on your background. Every charge, even if unfounded, becomes a potential barrier. That’s why the stakes are higher for you than for most people facing criminal accusations. You need an advocate who understands what’s at risk.

Get Help from a Boston Rideshare Appeals Attorney Today

If you’ve been charged with a crime while working as a rideshare driver, contact the Law Office of Patrick J. Murphy immediately. Patrick Murphy is a dedicated Boston criminal defense attorney who helps drivers challenge criminal charges while protecting their right to drive. Call (617) 367-0450 now to schedule a confidential consultation and take the first step toward saving your future.