HVA Hearing

HVA Hearings in Baltimore, MD | The Law Office of Hillel Traub, P.A.

What Are HVA Hearings in Maryland?

HVA hearings, also known as Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) administrative hearings, are formal legal proceedings conducted by the Maryland Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) to address driver-related issues. These hearings are separate from criminal court proceedings and focus specifically on administrative matters that affect your driving privileges in Maryland.

During an HVA hearing, drivers have the opportunity to contest administrative actions taken by the MVA, such as license suspensions, revocations, or other sanctions. The hearing takes place before an administrative law judge who reviews evidence, hears testimony, and makes decisions that directly impact your ability to drive legally in Maryland.

Types of HVA Hearings in Baltimore

License Suspension Hearings

License suspension hearings address temporary removal of driving privileges due to factors including DUI/DWI convictions, point accumulation, or failure to comply with MVA requirements. These hearings provide an opportunity to challenge the suspension and potentially restore limited driving privileges.

License Revocation Hearings

Revocation hearings involve more serious administrative actions where the MVA seeks to permanently remove driving privileges. These typically result from severe violations, repeat offenses, or circumstances that demonstrate a pattern of unsafe driving behavior.

Medical Advisory Board Hearings

These hearings review the medical fitness of drivers who may be medically unfit to operate a motor vehicle due to physical or mental health conditions. The Medical Advisory Board evaluates whether driving restrictions or license modifications are necessary for public safety.

Ignition Interlock Program Hearings

Drivers required to participate in Maryland's Ignition Interlock Program may face hearings to review compliance, request modifications, or address violations of program requirements.

How HVA Hearings Work in Maryland

HVA hearings are conducted at the Office of Administrative Hearings, with the main location at 11101 Gilroy Road in Hunt Valley, Maryland. Hearings must be requested within 30 days of receiving an Order of Suspension, with a $150 filing fee payable to the Maryland State Treasurer.

To preserve driving privileges during the hearing process, drivers must request their hearing within 10 days of the suspension order. The administrative law judge will review evidence, hear testimony, and make a determination that the MVA will implement.

Most DUI-related cases in Baltimore are initially heard at the District Court of Maryland for Baltimore City, located at 5800 Wabash Avenue. The Law Office of Hillel Traub maintains familiarity with procedures and personnel at this courthouse, which proves advantageous when representing clients in related administrative proceedings.

Why You Need Legal Representation for HVA Hearings

While you have the right to represent yourself at an HVA hearing, the stakes are too high to navigate this complex process alone. Administrative hearings involve intricate procedural requirements, specific deadlines, and technical legal arguments that can significantly impact the outcome of your case.

Attorney Hillel Traub's background as a former Assistant Attorney General for the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration provides unparalleled insight into how these hearings operate. This insider knowledge allows him to:

• Develop strategic approaches tailored to your specific hearing type
• Identify key legal arguments and procedural defenses
• Challenge evidence and witness testimony effectively
• Negotiate with MVA representatives for favorable outcomes
• Ensure proper notice and due process protections

Consequences of HVA Hearing Outcomes

The results of your HVA hearing can have lasting impacts on your life in Baltimore and throughout Maryland. Potential consequences include:

License Suspension Periods:

• DUI refusal: 270 days (first offense), 2 years (subsequent offenses)
• BAC 0.08-0.15: 180 days
• BAC 0.15 or higher: 180 days (first offense), 270 days (subsequent offenses)

Restricted License Options:

• Work-related driving privileges
• Medical appointments and essential travel
• Alcohol education program participation
• Ignition interlock device requirements

Long-term Implications:

• Increased insurance premiums
• Employment difficulties, especially for CDL holders
• Background check concerns for future opportunities

The Law Office of Hillel Traub Advantage

Former MVA Insider Knowledge

Attorney Hillel Traub's experience as a former Assistant Attorney General for the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration provides unique insights into MVA operations, hearing procedures, and administrative decision-making processes that other attorneys simply cannot match.

Local Baltimore Court Experience

Having practiced in Baltimore for over two decades, attorney Traub has established relationships with local prosecutors and understands how different administrative law judges handle various types of hearings. This local knowledge proves invaluable during negotiations and hearing presentations.

Comprehensive Case Preparation

The Law Office of Hillel Traub thoroughly investigates each case, examining MVA procedures, challenging improper evidence, and identifying procedural violations that could lead to favorable outcomes.

Personalized Client Service

As a boutique law firm, The Law Office of Hillel Traub provides close, personal attention to each case. Clients receive direct access to attorney Hillel Traub and tailored communication throughout the entire process.

Frequently Asked Questions About HVA Hearings

How long do I have to request an HVA hearing?

You have 30 days from the date of the Order of Suspension to request a hearing. To ensure your driving privilege is not suspended prior to the hearing, you must request within 10 days.

What is the filing fee for an HVA hearing?

The filing fee is $150, payable to the Maryland State Treasurer. The request is invalid without this fee or an applicable fee waiver.

Can I get a restricted license during the hearing process?

Depending on your specific circumstances and the type of violation, you may be eligible for a restricted license that allows driving for work, medical appointments, or alcohol education programs.

What happens if I miss my scheduled HVA hearing?

If you miss your scheduled hearing, the MVA will automatically impose the violation and any associated penalties. It's crucial to attend your hearing or request a postponement at least 5 days in advance.

How long does the HVA hearing process take?

Hearings are typically scheduled 4-6 weeks from the request date. The actual hearing may last several hours, depending on the complexity of your case and the evidence presented.

Protect Your Driving Privileges Today

Don't let an HVA hearing derail your life in Baltimore. The Law Office of Hillel Traub, P.A. has the experience, knowledge, and dedication necessary to fight for your driving privileges and achieve the best possible outcome in your case.

Located at 1777 Reisterstown Road Suite 22W in Baltimore, our office is easily accessible to drivers throughout the Baltimore metropolitan area. We understand the importance of maintaining your mobility for work, family obligations, and daily life in Baltimore.

Schedule a consultation today to get started. Contact The Law Office of Hillel Traub, P.A. at 410-205-5603 or visit our contact page to discuss your HVA hearing and explore your legal options. Don't face the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration alone – let our experience work for you.