Charged with Theft or Property Crime in Massachusetts? Our Aggressive Defense Attorney Is Ready to Protect Your Rights
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we know how seriously Massachusetts takes theft and property crime charges. With offices in Boston and Salem, our criminal defense law firm provides knowledgeable, aggressive representation to individuals facing property-related offenses in Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, or Norfolk Counties. Whether you’ve been charged with Larceny in Boston or Shoplifting in Salem, our team of experienced criminal defense attorneys – including a former prosecutor – takes each case personally and strategically. We are dedicated to safeguarding your future and are aware of the risks involved.
A Trusted Criminal Defense Law Firm for Theft and Property Crime
Being charged with a property crime in Massachusetts is not just a legal problem—it can affect your job, reputation, and family life. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we represent people throughout Boston, Brighton, West Roxbury, Chelsea, Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, Saugus, Cambridge, Somerville, Newton, Brookline, Dedham, and Quincy, and surrounding cities who are facing criminal allegations. Our team brings not only legal experience but also insider insight from a former prosecutor, allowing us to understand both sides of the courtroom. Our goal is to create a solid legal plan that is specific to your case.
Theft and Property Crime Charges We Handle
Below are the main types of theft and property crime charges our criminal defense attorneys handle in Massachusetts. Each charge is governed by specific statutes under Massachusetts law, and the penalties can vary significantly based on the value of the property involved, prior convictions, and other factors.
Larceny
Larceny involves unlawfully taking someone else’s personal property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. According to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 266, Section 30, larceny is classified based on the value of the stolen property. If the amount exceeds $1,200, it is considered a felony. A conviction can lead to jail time, fines, and a criminal record that impacts employment and housing. As a Massachusetts defense attorney, we take a detail-oriented approach to dispute the evidence and challenge the intent element of the charge.
Burglary
Breaking into a house with the intention of committing a crime there, especially at night, is called a burglary. Under Chapter 266, Section 15, burglary is a felony in Massachusetts and can result in up to 20 years in state prison, depending on whether the dwelling was occupied and whether force or weapons were involved. Intent and illegal entry must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt by the prosecution. Our aggressive criminal defense attorneys are skilled at scrutinizing the timeline, witness statements, and police procedure in burglary cases.
Breaking and Entering
This charge involves entering a building without permission, often with the intent to commit a crime, and is governed by Chapter 266, Section 16. Up to ten years in jail is the punishment for breaking and entering during the day with the intent to commit a felony. If it occurs at night or involves force, penalties increase. We examine police reports, surveillance footage, and inconsistencies to weaken the prosecution’s case.
Trespassing
Trespassing is addressed under Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 266, § 120, and involves unlawfully entering or remaining on another person’s property without permission. Even though it may seem like a minor offense, trespassing charges can lead to fines, probation, and a permanent mark on your criminal record. In some cases, such charges arise from misunderstandings, disputes, or mistaken identity. Our defense attorneys carefully review the circumstances, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and work toward dismissal or reduction of the charges.
Motor Vehicle Theft
Stealing or unlawfully using a motor vehicle is a criminal offense in Massachusetts under Chapter 266, Section 28. This charge can result in up to 15 years of imprisonment. In many cases, defendants are wrongfully accused due to mistaken identity or false allegations. As a criminal defense law firm, we push back on these accusations by analyzing forensic evidence, ownership records, and procedural errors in arrest.
Shoplifting
Shoplifting involves taking goods from a retail store without paying and is addressed under Chapter 266, Section 30A. Though often considered a misdemeanor, penalties can escalate for repeat offenses or higher-value items. A shoplifting conviction can have serious long-term consequences. Our defense attorneys know how to handle these charges with discretion and efficiency, often seeking case dismissal or reduction.
Robbery
Robbery is defined under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 265, Section 19, as the unlawful taking of property from another person through the use of force or intimidation. Unlike simple theft, robbery requires direct confrontation with a victim and is treated as a violent crime. Penalties for robbery are severe: a conviction can lead to lengthy prison terms, substantial fines, and long-lasting consequences on your criminal record. Armed robbery, where a weapon is used, carries even harsher penalties, including mandatory minimum prison sentences. Because robbery charges are aggressively prosecuted, having a knowledgeable Massachusetts robbery defense attorney is essential.
Receiving Stolen Property
Possessing or receiving stolen goods, knowing they were stolen, is a criminal offense under Chapter 266, Section 60. The prosecution must prove that the defendant had knowledge of the item’s stolen status. If the value exceeds $1,200, the offense becomes a felony. We challenge the state’s evidence on knowledge and ownership to fight for the best possible result.
Vandalism
Under Chapter 266, Section 126A, vandalism—which includes destroying, damaging, or defacing someone else’s property—is charged as malicious damage of property. A conviction may result in jail time, community service, and fines.. Our criminal defense attorneys investigate motives, surveillance records, and witness credibility to construct a strong defense.
Representing Clients Throughout Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk Counties
Our criminal defense law firm is proud to serve individuals facing theft and property crime charges across various communities in Massachusetts. With convenient office locations in Boston and Salem, we provide dedicated legal defense in both urban centers and surrounding towns. Whether you’re dealing with criminal charges in a district court or facing more serious allegations, our attorneys are ready to advocate for your rights. We bring strategic, local insight into the courts and legal procedures in each area we serve.
We frequently represent clients in the following locations:
- Suffolk County – Boston, Brighton, Chelsea, West Roxbury
- Essex County – Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, Saugus
- Middlesex County – Cambridge, Somerville, Newton
- Norfolk County – Brookline, Dedham, Quincy
If you’ve been charged in any of these areas or nearby towns, we’re ready to help you move forward with an effective legal strategy.
Why Choose Our Massachusetts Defense Attorney?
The outcome of your case might be greatly impacted by your choice of criminal defense attorney. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we offer a combination of local knowledge, strategic insight, and personalized attention to every client we represent. Our goal is to provide clear, results-focused legal guidance to help you move forward with confidence.
- Experience from Both Sides of the Courtroom: Our legal team includes a former prosecutor who understands how cases are built—and how to challenge them effectively.
- Individualized Legal Strategy: We take the time to comprehend your unique scenario and create a defense that is appropriate for your objectives and circumstances.
- Local Insight Across Multiple Counties: With offices in Boston and Salem, we regularly appear in courts throughout Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk Counties.
- Focused, Responsive Advocacy: From the moment you contact us, we’re committed to acting quickly, staying responsive, and advocating with purpose.
- Client-Centered Approach: We take your case seriously, treat you with respect, and keep you informed throughout the legal process.
Contact Us to Set Up a Legal Strategy Session
If you’re facing theft or property crime charges in Boston, Salem, or the surrounding areas, it’s important to take action early. Speaking with a skilled criminal defense attorney as soon as possible can significantly impact the direction of your case. Our team at the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson is ready to evaluate your situation and begin building a personalized legal strategy. Reach out now to schedule a strategy session and take the first step toward protecting your rights.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between theft and larceny in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, “theft” is a general term, while “larceny” is the specific legal term used in statutes like Chapter 266, Section 30. Larceny refers to unlawfully taking someone’s property with the intent to permanently keep it.
Can a property crime be charged as a felony?
Yes, if the value of the property exceeds $1,200 or certain aggravating factors are present, the crime can be charged as a felony under Massachusetts law. For example, felony larceny and burglary both carry serious prison terms.
What should I do if I’m falsely accused of shoplifting?
Do not speak to store security or police, and get in touch with a defense attorney right away. An aggressive criminal defense attorney can review video footage and challenge the evidence.
How can a criminal defense attorney help with vandalism charges?
An experienced attorney can question the intent behind the act, review evidence for flaws, and negotiate for reduced penalties or dismissal, especially for first-time offenders.
Is it possible to avoid jail time for property crimes in Massachusetts?
Yes, depending on the circumstances and the strength of your legal representation, you may be eligible for pretrial diversion, probation, or other alternatives to incarceration.