Facing Drug Charges in Massachusetts? Our Criminal Defense Attorneys Are Ready to Fight for You
If you’ve been arrested for a drug crime in Massachusetts, the stakes are high. From the initial arrest to your court appearance, how you respond can impact your future, career, and freedom. The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson has offices in both Boston and Salem, providing strong, experienced criminal defense across Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk Counties. Whether you’re charged with drug possession or more serious allegations such as trafficking, our team—made up of aggressive criminal defense attorneys and a former prosecutor—will approach your case with the strategic and assertive representation it requires.
Your Local Massachusetts Criminal Defense Law Firm
Our criminal defense law firm defends individuals across Boston, Salem, Cambridge, Lynn, Chelsea, Peabody, and other nearby towns who have been charged with illegal drug-related offenses. We focus on building a legal strategy that considers the specific facts of your case, the laws involved, and the best approach to resolve the matter efficiently and effectively. Our team understands both sides of the courtroom, allowing us to anticipate and counter the prosecution’s strategies. We take your case personally and fight for your rights at every stage of the criminal justice process.
Drug Crime Charges We Handle
Our criminal defense law firm handles a wide range of drug-related offenses under Massachusetts law. Each charge comes with its own legal definitions and penalties, and we’re committed to providing you with informed, strategic representation for your specific situation. Below are the key charges we regularly defend, including a brief overview and the applicable Massachusetts laws.
Possession of a Controlled Substance
Being charged with possession of a controlled substance means you’re accused of knowingly having illegal drugs in your possession. Under Mass. Gen. Laws c. 94C, § 34, it is unlawful to knowingly or intentionally possess a controlled substance unless it was obtained legally. This includes substances like heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, and even some prescription medications without a valid prescription. The severity of this charge often depends on the type of drug and prior offenses. If convicted, penalties may include jail time, probation, or mandatory drug education programs.
Our criminal defense attorneys thoroughly investigate how the drugs were discovered, whether your rights were violated, and whether any evidence can be suppressed. We are focused on resolving these cases through either dismissal, reduction of charges, or a negotiated resolution that avoids serious penalties.
Possession with Intent to Distribute
This charge goes beyond simple possession and alleges that you intended to distribute or sell illegal drugs. Under Mass. Gen. Laws c. 94C, § 32, possession with intent to distribute is a felony and comes with far more serious penalties. Even if only a small quantity of drugs is found, law enforcement can claim “intent to distribute” based on surrounding evidence such as packaging materials, scales, or large amounts of cash.
Our aggressive criminal defense attorneys challenge these assumptions and build your defense based on the lack of direct evidence or errors in police procedure. A strong defense can prevent this charge from damaging your future.
Drug Trafficking
Drug trafficking involves the manufacture, distribution, or possession with intent to distribute a certain amount of controlled substances. This is prosecuted under Mass. Gen. Laws c. 94C, § 32E, and carries mandatory minimum sentences based on the drug type and quantity. For example, trafficking over 18 grams of heroin could lead to a mandatory prison sentence of five years.
If you’re facing a trafficking charge, you need a Massachusetts defense attorney with experience in mandatory minimum sentencing and a deep understanding of how drug quantities and lab results can affect the outcome of your case. Our law firm uses every tool available—from motion hearings to expert witnesses—to challenge the Commonwealth’s evidence.
Distribution of a Controlled Substance
Under Mass. Gen. Laws c. 94C, § 32A, distributing a controlled substance is a serious felony charge. The government must prove not only that you had drugs but that you transferred or planned to transfer them to another person. This includes hand-to-hand sales and other exchanges. Distribution can carry penalties of up to 10 years in prison, even on a first offense, depending on the drug class.
Our criminal defense attorneys carefully analyze police reports, confidential informant statements, and surveillance to challenge the prosecution’s version of events. We aim to either get the charges reduced or dismissed entirely, depending on the strength of the case against you.
Where We Provide Criminal Defense Representation
Our law firm proudly serves individuals facing criminal charges across multiple counties in Massachusetts. With offices located in Boston and Salem, we are well-positioned to defend clients in district and superior courts throughout the region. Whether you’re dealing with charges in a city or a surrounding town, we bring local knowledge and courtroom experience to every case.
We represent clients in, but not limited to following areas:
- Suffolk County: Boston, Brighton, West Roxbury, Chelsea
- Essex County: Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, Saugus
- Middlesex County: Cambridge, Somerville, Newton
- Norfolk County: Brookline, Dedham, Quincy
Why Choose Our Criminal Defense Law Firm
Choosing the right defense team can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we bring focused legal knowledge, courtroom experience, and a deep commitment to protecting your rights. Whether you’re facing a first-time charge or a more complex case, our attorneys are equipped to guide you through every step of the legal process with clarity and confidence.
- Informed Legal Strategy: Our attorneys include a former prosecutor, giving us valuable insight into how the state prepares and prosecutes drug crime cases.
- Strong Courtroom Advocacy: We’re known for our assertive, thoughtful defense approach—always prepared to challenge the prosecution and protect your interests.
- Client-Centered Approach: Every case is different. We tailor our defense strategy to your unique situation, ensuring your voice is heard throughout the process.
- Local Experience and Familiarity: With offices in both Boston and Salem, we are familiar with the courts, judges, and procedures across Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk Counties.
- Results-Driven Representation: Our goal is to minimize the impact of the charges on your life—through negotiation, dismissal, or trial, depending on what best serves you.
Take the First Step Toward Your Defense
If you’ve been charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession with Intent to distribute, Drug Trafficking, or Distribution of a Controlled Substance, don’t wait to seek legal help. The sooner you get a criminal defense attorney involved, the better your chances are for a positive resolution. Contact the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson today to schedule a confidential strategy session. We are here to protect your rights and build a solid defense in Boston, Salem, and surrounding Massachusetts communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between drug possession and possession with intent to distribute in Massachusetts?
Drug possession is having illegal drugs for personal use, while possession with intent to distribute means the prosecution believes you planned to sell or give the drugs to others. Intent can be inferred from items like baggies or large sums of cash.
Can I go to jail for drug trafficking in Massachusetts?
Yes. Under Massachusetts law, drug trafficking convictions can come with mandatory minimum sentences, even for first-time offenders, depending on the drug and amount involved.
Is marijuana still a controlled substance in Massachusetts?
Although recreational marijuana is legal for adults in Massachusetts, it remains a controlled substance under state and federal law. Possession outside legal limits or unlicensed distribution can still result in charges under G.L. c. 94C.
What should I do if I’ve been charged with drug possession in Boston or Salem?
You should contact a qualified criminal defense attorney immediately. Avoid speaking with prosecutors or police without legal counsel. A defense attorney can guide you through your options, from dismissal to pretrial resolution or trial.
Will a drug conviction affect my record permanently?
A drug conviction can result in a criminal record, which may impact employment, housing, and future legal matters. In some cases, charges can be sealed or expunged under Massachusetts law, but this depends on the specific facts and outcomes.