Massachusetts Expands Definition of Abuse to Include “Coercive Control”
Quick Overview On July 25, 2024, Governor Maura Healey signed “An Act to Prevent Abuse and Exploitation,” also known as the 2024 Mass. Acts c. 118, § 4 (H. 4744), which dramatically expands the definition of “abuse” in Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 209A, Section 1. Effective September 18, 2024, this Act introduces the concept of […]
Will I Go to Prison for Human Trafficking? Understanding the Consequences and Defenses
Human trafficking charges in Massachusetts carry severe consequences, including mandatory prison time and registration as a sex offender. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s crucial to understand the gravity of the charges, the legal definitions, and the potential defenses available to you. This blog post aims to provide clear, authoritative information to help […]
Jury Finds Client NOT GUILTY of Domestic Violence in Middlesex Superior Court
In a landmark victory, the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson successfully defended a client in a high-stakes domestic violence trial in Middlesex Superior Court in August 2024. Our client faced multiple charges with severe penalties, yet he was found not guilty on all counts. This case highlights the importance of expert legal representation and […]
Top 10 Things to Look for in Finding the Best Attorney
Selecting the best attorney can be the key to achieving a successful outcome for your case. Whether you’re facing a legal challenge or simply need professional advice, finding a lawyer who aligns with your needs and expectations is crucial. Here are the top 10 factors to consider when choosing the right attorney for you. 1. […]
Do I Need a Lawyer if My Uber or Lyft License is Suspended?
If you are facing a rideshare (Uber or Lyft) license suspension in MA, you should hire a lawyer immediately. You may be able to appeal, and the attorney can work to get your license back as soon as possible. Rideshare driving, whether for Uber, Lyft, or another transportation network company (TNC), has become a significant […]
What is Assault in Massachusetts?
If you’ve been charged with assault in the state of Massachusetts, it is in your best interest to hire a criminal defense attorney as soon as you receive your court summons. If convicted of assault, you could spend time in the state correctional facility or be made to pay a fine. You can either receive […]
What is an Excited Utterance in Massachusetts?
When facing criminal charges in Massachusetts, many defendants and their families hope that if the alleged victim decides not to testify, the case might simply go away. However, this is not always the case, especially when certain exceptions to the hearsay rule come into play, such as the “excited utterance” exception. As a seasoned Massachusetts […]
What Does it Mean to “Press Charges” in Massachusetts?
My name is Matthew W. Peterson and I am a criminal defense, family, firearms, and immigration attorney based in Boston. While I have been working in the legal field for many years now, I know the criminal justice system is anything but intuitive. Being involved in the system can be stressful, overwhelming, and confusing at […]
False Accusations of Abuse Can Derail Your Divorce
False accusations of abuse have become a silver bullet in contested divorces. If you are accused of domestic violence, a judge can immediately prevent you from seeing your children, remove you from your home, and set the scene for a tough custody battle. This is because the law presumes that you are an unfit parent […]
Excited Utterance Motion DENIED on Domestic Violence Charges in Malden
On August 22, 2023, a judge in Malden District Court DENIED the Commonwealth’s motion to admit the alleged victim’s statements as an excited utterance. The Commonwealth was trying to proceed on the charges even though the alleged victim had recanted and was not willing to testify in court. Unfortunately, even if the alleged victim does […]