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 […]
Jury Finds Client NOT GUILTY of Domestic Violence in Fall River
On February 16, 2023, Attorney Matthew Peterson defended a client charged with assault and battery on a family/household member at a jury trial in Fall River District Court. After a one-day jury trial, the jury found our client NOT GUILTY. Our client was charged with getting into a physical fight with his live-in girlfriend. She […]
What is a Restraining Order?
If you are considering filing a restraining order, you need an experienced attorney to help, because you may need to appear in court for a hearing. While you can file for a restraining order yourself, if you feel that you are being harassed, stalked, or abused, that is an extremely serious matter. Having an attorney who knows […]
What Could Cause a Gun License Suspension?
In Massachusetts, your gun license can be suspended if the licensing authority determines that you may be a threat to public safety. Below are some examples of circumstances that may cause your firearms license to be suspended: Misdemeanor domestic violence or assault arrest; OUI or other alcohol-related offenses arrest; A restraining order; Living in the same […]
Can I Drive for Uber/Lyft if I’m Arrested?
If you’re arrested, you could lose your license to operate for Uber/Lyft. This is even before you’re convicted. I am an attorney who has helped people get their license to operate a rideshare back after their arrest. Massachusetts regulations, 220 CMR 274, provides that if you’re charged with certain crimes, your license to operate a […]
What Should I Do if I’m Charged with Violating a Restraining Order?
If you are charged with violating a restraining order, there are defenses that can be argued in court, but hiring a defense attorney is crucial to the success of your case. In most cases, the evidence that someone has violated the terms of a restraining order comes from the testimony of the alleged victim, and […]
Attorney Matthew W. Peterson Selected as a 2022 Super Lawyers Rising Star
I am thrilled to announce that I have been selected as a Super Lawyers Rising Star for the year 2022! Super Lawyers selects attorneys for this honor using a patented, multiphase selection process involving nominations, independent research on the nominated attorney, and peer evaluation. Verdicts, pro bono and community service, and experience, are just a […]
Will a Domestic Violence Conviction Affect My Gun Rights?
Domestic violence charges will severely affect your gun rights. Permanently. A domestic violence conviction will prevent you from ever legally carrying a gun. This is according to both Massachusetts and Federal law. If you later carry a gun after being convicted of domestic violence, you could be subject to serious federal and state charges. This […]
What Is Assault and Battery on a Family or Household Member in Massachusetts?
Assault and battery on a family or household member is a misdemeanor in Massachusetts, for a first-time offense. It can become a felony if you have been previously convicted of the same offense. If you are charged with assault and battery on a family or household member, you need an attorney who can help you […]