Criminal Defense Law

Massachusetts Criminal Defense

Picking the right attorney is critical every time you are charged with a crime. In Massachusetts convictions may carry with them collateral consequences that only an experienced criminal defense attorney will know. These consequences can affect your drivers license status, any professional license status, your ability to obtain or retain certain employment, eligibility for certain government programs/ benefits or worse. As a general rule, you will not be notified of this when your case is disposed of. Many criminal cases in Massachusetts carry with them the possibility of incarceration. Anything that can affect your liberty must be taken seriously.

We are former Assistant District Attorneys. We have seen cases from both sides and have impaneled hundreds of jury trials. Our criminal defense firm, because of our collective experience, is in a unique position to provide you with insight and guidance. We prepare our clients for all contingencies and explore all of their options and help them choose what is best for them. When it comes to Massachusetts criminal trials, our experience and preparation are unmatched. We prepare each case and each client to maximize the chance for success. We are willing to fight for our clients by taking our cases to trial and the Commonwealth lawyers know we treat each of our cases seriously. We have vast experience trying criminal cases in the district and superior courts of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

1. Do I need a criminal defense lawyer?

You should always talk to a lawyer. It is always worth the investment in time and money to have an experienced trial attorney represent your interests. If your case is resolved by way of a plea, it is our experience that people who are represented by a courtroom lawyer are able to negotiate better and more favorable dispositions. If your case goes to trial, you need someone who knows the rules, knows your case and is willing to fight hard to protect your interests.

2. What are the possible penalties in Massachusetts for common crimes?

Most criminal charges carry the possibility of going to jail. If you’re placed on probation, you could be sentenced if you violate the terms of probation. It is impossible to list every charge and what the maximum sentence is. Common charges in the district court include: assault and battery, maximum sentence two and one-half years to the house of correction; violation of restraining order, maximum sentence two and one-half years to the house of correction; drunk driving or operating under the influence (OUI), maximum sentence two and one-half years to the house of correction; disorderly person, maximum sentence six months to the house of correction; malicious destruct of property over $ 250, maximum sentence two and one-half years to the house of correction; larceny over $250, maximum sentence two and one-half years to the house of correction; assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, maximum sentence two and one-half years to the house of correction. Charges in the Superior Court carry with them the possibility of incarceration to the state prison system.

3. Can you tell me about the steps in a Massachusetts criminal case?

Criminal cases have various stages or steps to them. Criminal cases, for the most part, can be resolved in three ways: by a dismissal, by offering a plea or admission or by having a trial in front of a judge or jury. When charges are brought, the first step in the process is an arraignment. At an arraignment, the charges are read; a plea, usually not guilty is entered; terms of release (bail) and pretrial conditions are determined; and the issue of whether or not you’ll be represented by counsel is addressed. After the arraignment, a pretrial conference is set. At the pretrial, issues of discovery are resolved, pretrial motions are heard or scheduled for a hearing and the parties are given an opportunity to resolve the case or pick a trial date. If the case is set for trial, you have a choice of whether to have a trial in front of a judge or jury to decide whether you are guilty or not guilty.

4. What are my rights?

You have many rights as a person accused or being investigated of a crime. You have a right to remain silent and not answer any questions without a lawyer. We strongly suggest you speak to an attorney prior to answering any questions or being interviewed by the police or any agency. You have a right to have an attorney of your choice. You have a right to examine the evidence against you. You have a right to face, confront and cross-examine the witnesses against you. You have the right to present evidence and witnesses on your behalf. In short, you have the right to your day in court.

5. What should I look for when picking a criminal defense lawyer?

Pick an attorney who is experienced. You should get a lawyer who has done cases like yours before. An important criterion is whether an attorney is willing to fight for you. Many lawyers say they are trial lawyers but when it comes down to it, they are unwilling to put a jury in the box. Pick an attorney that you feel comfortable with and who is willing to give you real advice and not just tell you what you want to hear to collect a fee. Establish with your lawyer a clear goal of the representation so you know what to expect. Meet your attorney before you decide and keep in contact throughout the course of representation. We are experienced trial lawyers who work as a team on your case. We welcome your questions and an opportunity to serve as your lawyer.