The Registry of Motor Vehicles has been characterized as a haven for patronage. I recently ran into a situation that struck the point home with me.
Everyone is entitled to a hearing prior to a license suspension even when a police department official wants to suspend someone's license as "unfit" to be driving a motor vehicle (which usually happens when someone aggressively disputes a traffic ticket (like calling the cop a moron) and the cops want to punish him for it). Though the constitutional procedural due process for these hearings is simple and is governed by published regulations, there are requirements that in theory must be followed: notice, required testimony, and right to submit evidence and to cross-examine. However, the hearing officers are all retired police officers. Recently, as part of a hearing, I decided to bring in a copy of the published RMV due process regulations. The hearing officer looked at them and said: "There are rules for these hearings? I have done about a 1000 of these hearings, this is the first time that I have seen these."
Ah, patronage.
Law(yers) Can Be Funny, too: Tipping the scales of justice, one joke at a time
Reservations/Public phone contact: 202-296-7008
Date: Saturday, November 8th
Time: 8:00pm
DC Improv Comedy Lounge, 1140 Connecticut Ave., N.W., Washington DC 20036
Cost: $10
Description: For one night only in The DC Improv Comedy Lounge "Law(yers) can be funny, too": From the center of the free world, where the rule of law reigns supreme, a group of lawyers will band together and lead the way towards helping the citizens of this great city in their pursuit of life, liberty, and a sense of humor. A standup comedy show featuring several lawyers and the author of a joke book for lawyers. You are invited to join us in a night of comedy to see whether "Law(yers) can be funny, too." Performers include: Martin Dennis, James Dechard, Rishi Nangia, Giovanni Diviacchi, Phillip J. Mause, and Frank Schuchat.
www.linkedin.com/in/thatsmystoryhttp://www.symfonee.com/improv/dc/comedians/Bio.aspx?ShowDate=11/08/08&Uid={2f20ef66-73b9-46a2-87f8-bc4d3974b174}