Facing Motor Vehicle Offense Charges? Our Criminal Defense Law Firm Is Ready to Protect Your Future
If you’ve been charged with a motor vehicle offense in Massachusetts, the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson is prepared to stand by your side. With offices conveniently located in both Boston and Salem, our criminal defense law firm offers trusted legal representation across Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk counties. We take each case personally, bringing a team of aggressive criminal defense attorneys—including a former prosecutor—who understands how these cases are prosecuted and how best to challenge them. When your future is on the line, you need a Boston criminal defense attorney who will fight with knowledge, strategy, and integrity.
Your Defense Starts With a Focused Strategy
Being charged with a motor vehicle offense in Massachusetts is a serious matter. Even a civil infraction can lead to fines, points on your license, or increased insurance premiums. Criminal charges like DUI or Reckless Driving can carry jail time, probation, license suspension, and long-term consequences. Our defense team uses experience and legal insight to challenge charges at every stage—starting from your first court appearance.
Whether you’ve been charged in Boston, Salem, or surrounding areas such as Cambridge, Brookline, or Lynn, we are committed to protecting your record and reputation. Contact us now to set up a strategy session with a Massachusetts defense attorney who is ready to help.
Motor Vehicle Charges We Handle
Below are some of the common motor vehicle charges we defend in Massachusetts. Every case is unique, and each charge under Massachusetts law comes with its own set of potential consequences. The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson takes a personal approach to every client’s situation, offering defense strategies rooted in experience and familiarity with both the courts and applicable laws. Our goal is to minimize the impact these charges have on your life.
Civil Traffic Infractions
Civil traffic infractions in Massachusetts are non-criminal violations, such as speeding or failing to signal, governed under M.G.L. c. 90C. While these infractions don’t carry jail time, they can still result in fines, license suspensions, and increased insurance premiums. A Massachusetts defense attorney can challenge the citation, question evidence, and potentially reduce or dismiss penalties. Don’t overlook these infractions—repeated offenses can escalate consequences significantly. Let our criminal defense law firm help you protect your driving record and avoid unnecessary costs.
Driving Without a Valid License
Under M.G.L. c. 90, § 10, operating a vehicle without a valid license is considered a misdemeanor offense in Massachusetts. It can lead to fines, court appearances, and even a criminal record. Whether your license has expired, was never issued, or is from another state but is invalid here, we can help you address the legal implications. Our Boston defense attorney will assess whether procedural or legal errors occurred during the stop or arrest. You don’t have to face this charge alone—we can build a defense that fits your circumstances.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
DUI charges in Massachusetts are prosecuted under M.G.L. c. 90, § 24, which prohibits operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Convictions can lead to license suspension, heavy fines, mandatory education programs, and even jail time. Our criminal defense law firm includes a former prosecutor who understands how these cases are built and where weaknesses may exist in the Commonwealth’s evidence.
We aggressively advocate for suppression of unlawful stops, breath test challenges, and alternative resolutions where possible. We defend DUI clients throughout Boston, Salem, and surrounding cities with a results-oriented approach.
Leaving the Scene of an Accident
Leaving the scene of an accident without stopping to provide your information is prohibited under M.G.L. c. 90, § 24(2)(a). Depending on whether the crash involved property damage or injury, penalties may include fines, imprisonment, and license suspension. These cases often hinge on intent and whether the driver was aware of the damage or injury caused. As your Massachusetts defense attorney, we work to present mitigating circumstances, negotiate lesser charges, or fight for dismissal. Let our criminal defense law firm stand between you and a potentially life-altering conviction.
Reckless Driving
Defined in M.G.L. c. 90, § 24(2)(a), reckless driving occurs when someone operates a vehicle in a way that endangers public safety. Unlike simple negligence, this charge involves a higher level of disregard and can carry serious penalties, including jail, license loss, and a criminal record. Our aggressive criminal defense attorney can question officer interpretations, witness accounts, and the validity of any related citations. If you’ve been charged in Suffolk, Essex, or surrounding counties, don’t leave your case to chance. We’ll help you challenge every aspect of the prosecution’s claim.
Failure to Stop for Police
Failing to stop for a law enforcement officer after being signaled is a criminal offense under M.G.L. c. 90, § 25. Even if you panicked or were unaware of the signal, you could still be facing arrest, fines, and possible jail time. With our deep understanding of Massachusetts motor vehicle laws, we help clients challenge the legal basis for the stop and argue for reduced penalties. If you’re from Boston, Brighton, West Roxbury, or other nearby towns, we are here to help you respond confidently and legally. Don’t let one mistake define your future—contact us to set up a defense strategy.
Operating an Uninsured Vehicle
Operating a motor vehicle without valid insurance is a violation of M.G.L. c. 90, § 34J, and it’s a charge that can lead to fines, court costs, and license suspension. Even if the lapse in insurance was accidental, the law does not require intent for prosecution. Our Boston criminal defense attorney works to minimize the severity of these consequences and seeks alternatives when possible. We may also be able to demonstrate that insurance coverage was active or that you weren’t aware of its cancellation. It’s essential to act quickly—reach out today to secure your legal position.
Driving with a Suspended or Revoked License
This charge is governed by M.G.L. c. 90, § 23, and penalties can include jail, hefty fines, and extended suspension periods. Even if your license was suspended without your knowledge, you can still face prosecution. Our Massachusetts defense attorney carefully reviews Registry of Motor Vehicles records and the legality of the initial stop to develop a strong defense. We serve clients from Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, and Peabody with strategies focused on reducing or eliminating penalties. Don’t risk your freedom—let our experienced attorneys help you understand your rights and options.
Negligent Operation
Negligent operation of a motor vehicle, often charged under M.G.L. c. 90, § 24(2)(a), occurs when someone drives in a way that endangers the public, though not as recklessly as in a “reckless driving” case. This is still a criminal offense and can carry jail time, license suspension, and a permanent mark on your record. With offices in Boston and Salem, our criminal defense law firm regularly appears in district courts throughout Suffolk and Essex Counties. Our approach involves examining whether your conduct met the statutory threshold for negligence and pushing back on overzealous charges. The sooner you take action, the more powerful your defence will be.
License Fraud
License fraud, covered under M.G.L. c. 90, § 24B, involves using or possessing a false driver’s license or presenting false information to obtain one. This charge is taken seriously and can lead to felony charges depending on the circumstances. We understand how these cases are investigated and prosecuted, and how to challenge the government’s evidence. Whether you are a student, worker, or resident navigating complex documentation issues, we provide a non-judgmental and strategic defense. If you’re charged in Cambridge, Somerville, or Brookline, we’re here to defend you with experience and discretion.
Motor Vehicle Homicide
Motor vehicle homicide is one of the most serious driving-related charges in Massachusetts and is prosecuted under M.G.L. c. 90, § 24G. This offense applies when a person is accused of causing the death of another while operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or through reckless or negligent driving. A conviction can lead to years of imprisonment, long-term license revocation, and a permanent felony record. These cases are often highly complex, involving accident reconstruction, toxicology reports, and witness testimony.
Our defense team draws on extensive experience to carefully analyze the evidence, challenge the prosecution’s case, and pursue every possible defense. With so much at stake, having a skilled Massachusetts criminal defense attorney is critical. We are committed to fighting for your rights, your freedom, and your future if you are facing this life-changing charge.
Why Choose Our Criminal Defense Law Firm
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we take your case personally. Our team includes a former prosecutor, which gives us valuable insight into how the Commonwealth builds and prosecutes motor vehicle cases. We don’t just rely on standard approaches—we tailor every defense to the facts of your situation and the legal nuances of Massachusetts law. With locations in both Boston and Salem, we serve clients throughout Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk Counties. Whether you’ve been charged with a minor infraction or a serious offense, we’re ready to help you take the next step forward.
Contact Us to Set Up a Strategy Session
If you’ve been charged with a motor vehicle offense in Massachusetts, don’t delay. The earlier you contact a criminal defense law firm, the better your chances of a successful outcome. Whether you’re in Boston, Salem, or a nearby city or town, our team is ready to defend your rights with professionalism and skill. Contact the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson now to schedule your strategy session.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Civil Infraction in Massachusetts considered a criminal offense?
No. Civil infractions in Massachusetts are not criminal but can lead to fines and license points. However, they can have serious long-term consequences if left unresolved.
Can I go to jail for driving with a suspended license in Massachusetts?
Yes, under M.G.L. c. 90, § 23, this is a misdemeanor that can result in jail time depending on the circumstances and prior history.
What happens if I leave the scene of an accident?
Leaving the scene can lead to criminal charges under M.G.L. c. 90, § 24, especially if injury or property damage occurred.
Is DUI a felony in Massachusetts?
A first or second DUI is typically classified as a misdemeanor. However, repeated offenses or incidents involving injury can elevate the charge to a felony.
How do I fight a Reckless Driving charge in Massachusetts?
A Massachusetts defense attorney can challenge the facts of the case, witness accounts, and evidence to seek a reduction or dismissal of the charge.