East Boston Criminal Defense Lawyer

Seasoned Criminal Defense Attorney Defending Your Case in East Boston and Eastern Massachusetts

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Facing Criminal Charges in East Boston, MA? Our Defense Attorneys Are Prepared to Protect Your Future

If you have been accused of a crime in East Boston, MA, the stakes are high, and the consequences can affect your future for years to come. The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, with offices in Boston and Salem, is dedicated to providing aggressive and skilled defense for individuals facing charges in the BMC-East Boston Division and throughout Suffolk County. Our top-rated criminal defense law firm in Massachusetts understands the complexity of the legal system and works to guide clients through every stage of their case. When you work with us, you gain the insight of experienced East Boston criminal defense lawyers who know how cases are built and how to challenge them.

We take every case seriously because we know your freedom, rights, and reputation are on the line. Whether you are facing allegations of white-collar crime, theft and property crime, drug crime, motor vehicle offenses, assault and violent crime, sexual offenses, firearms charges, or public order offenses, we are prepared to defend you. Our role is not only to represent you in court but to make sure you understand the legal process, the laws that apply to your case, and the options you have. Contact us now to set up a strategy session and begin protecting your rights.

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Why You Need an East Boston Criminal Defense Attorney

When charged with a crime in East Boston, your case will likely be heard in the Boston Municipal Court – East Boston Division (BMC-East Boston Division). These proceedings can have serious outcomes, including jail time, fines, probation, or long-term consequences on employment and immigration status. The laws in Massachusetts are detailed and constantly changing, making it essential to have an attorney who understands the statutes, court procedures, and possible defenses.

The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson provides strategic and personalized defense for every client. Whether you face a misdemeanor or a felony, having an East Boston criminal defense attorney on your side can make the difference in securing your future.

Crimes We Handle in East Boston, MA

Our defense attorneys handle a wide range of criminal charges in East Boston and throughout Massachusetts. Each category of crime is governed by Massachusetts laws and statutes, which determine penalties, sentencing guidelines, and court procedures. We focus on giving our clients a clear understanding of the charges against them while building a defense that aims to reduce or dismiss the allegations. Below are the main types of cases we defend:

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Theft and Property Crime

Theft and property crimes in Massachusetts are addressed under Chapter 266 of the Massachusetts General Laws, which includes larceny and other property-related offenses. These charges can range from shoplifting to more serious allegations such as burglary or embezzlement. Penalties often depend on the value of the property and the circumstances surrounding the case. As your East Boston criminal defense attorney, we work to fight these charges and reduce the impact they can have on your record and future.

Drug Crime

Massachusetts law under Chapter 94C of the Massachusetts General Laws governs controlled substances and related drug offenses. Charges may include possession, distribution, or trafficking of illegal drugs, each carrying different penalties based on the substance and quantity involved. A conviction can lead to significant prison sentences and long-term consequences. Our drug defense attorneys focus on challenging the evidence, questioning search and seizure procedures, and pursuing the best possible outcome for you.

Public order offenses

Public order offenses cover a range of charges, such as disorderly conduct, disturbing the peace, and are found under various sections of the Massachusetts General Laws. While these may seem like minor infractions, they can still result in fines, probation, and a permanent criminal record. Our law firm takes these charges seriously and is committed to defending you against allegations that could harm your reputation.

Assault and violent crime

Assault and violent crimes fall under Chapter 265 of the Massachusetts General Laws. These charges may involve allegations of assault, battery, or other violent acts. Convictions carry serious penalties, including imprisonment and lasting impacts on your personal and professional life. We approach these cases with a strong defense strategy aimed at protecting your freedom and ensuring the prosecution meets its burden of proof.

Sexual offenses

Sexual offenses are among the most serious charges in Massachusetts and are addressed under Chapter 265 of the Massachusetts General Laws. Allegations can include sexual assault or other related crimes, all of which carry significant penalties and social consequences. These cases require careful handling due to their sensitive nature and the long-term effects of a conviction. Our law firm works aggressively to defend your rights and challenge any weaknesses in the case against you.

White-collar crime

White-collar crimes are non-violent offenses typically involving fraud, deceit, or financial misconduct. In Massachusetts, such crimes can include actions prosecuted under Chapter 266 of the Massachusetts General Laws, which covers offenses involving fraud and false pretenses. Convictions can lead to severe financial penalties, restitution, and imprisonment. Our law firm is prepared to challenge the evidence and protect your rights, ensuring your side of the story is heard.

Motor vehicle offenses

Motor vehicle offenses in Massachusetts are covered under Chapter 90 of the Massachusetts General Laws. These can range from operating under the influence OUI/DUI to operating without a license or reckless driving. Even minor offenses can result in license suspension, fines, and higher insurance premiums. Our attorneys know how to navigate these cases and protect your driving privileges while working to minimize the consequences.

Firearms charges

Firearms charges in Massachusetts are governed by Chapter 269 of the Massachusetts General Laws, which outlines offenses related to the unlawful possession, carrying without a license, or improper storage. Massachusetts has some of the strictest gun laws in the country, and violations can lead to mandatory minimum sentences. Our firearms defense attorneys understand the complexities of firearms law and will fight to protect your constitutional rights.

Defending Clients in BMC-East Boston Division

The BMC-East Boston Division is a key court for handling local criminal cases, and our firm has extensive experience representing clients there. Understanding how this court operates and the procedures followed is essential in preparing an effective defense. Our attorneys know the local legal environment and use that knowledge to our clients’ advantage. If your case is scheduled in this court, our Massachusetts defense attorneys are prepared to represent you every step of the way.

Why Choose Our Top-Rated Criminal Defense Law Firm in Massachusetts

Choosing the right defense attorney can be one of the most important decisions of your life. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we combine legal skill, courtroom experience, and a client-centered approach to build strong defenses. We are known for aggressive representation while treating every case with personal attention. With offices in Boston and Salem, we are accessible to clients throughout Suffolk County, including East Boston.

We have significant experience defending clients in the BMC-East Boston Division, and we know how to navigate the local courts effectively. Our attorneys are committed to ensuring that you are not just another case file, but a person whose future is worth protecting.

Contact an East Boston Criminal Defense Attorney Today

If you are facing criminal charges in East Boston, MA, now is the time to take action. The earlier you involve a defense attorney, the stronger your chances of building a solid defense strategy. Our team understands the process in the BMC-East Boston Division and will guide you through every step with clear communication

and aggressive representation. We focus on protecting your rights, minimizing potential penalties, and pursuing the best possible outcome for your situation. Contact us now to set up a strategy session and begin preparing your defense today.

Boston Office

Salem Office

Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney Ready to Defend your Rights

Boston Office
55 Union St, Suite 400, Boston, MA 02108
(617)-295-7500

Salem Office
15 Church St, Suite 105 Salem, MA 01970
(978)-607-0034

Office Hours
Mondays – Fridays
24/7 Support

Saturdays – Sundays
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

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Weslley Vilela
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Explained all my inquiries!! Thank you !
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I was fortunate enough to come across Matthew Peterson Law via word of mouth and incredibly positive reviews. And if I could give 10,000 stars I would. I was assisted by Attorney Margaret Petersen, who is an excellent, incredibly knowledgeable, compassionate, and diligent professional. The individuals at Matthew Peterson Law are top notch and I cannot say enough positive words about them.
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Michael McDonough
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I started my experience with Mathew Peterson law firm with attorney Chris Obrien. A exceptional lawyer who has continued to go above and beyond for me. I am now being represented by attorney Manchington. Also, a high class-stand up gentleman who you want up to bat for you! Although my legal issues are still on-going, I am confident in the team at Mathew Peterson law firm that will continue to work hard and diligently for me! Highly recommend to anyone in need of legal assistance.
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Alexis Sanabria
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They are the best. always call and give u updates on cases and treat u like family
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N Maceus
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I am an attorney and a registered nurse, and I hold professionals to a high standard. Matthew Peterson exceeded every one of them. I retained him seven days before a contested 209A restraining order hearing — from out of state, with a record thousands of pages deep and an active case in another jurisdiction layered on top. Seven days is not much time. He made it look like plenty. He read everything; I know because within a day his questions were sharper than mine. He built the strategy, moved fast, and kept me informed in plain English at every step. His entire office works the same way — I sent materials at one in the morning and had a substantive reply before lunch. Not once did I wonder where my case stood. In the courtroom he was everything you want: prepared, precise, composed, and completely in command of the record. The order was dismissed at the return hearing. What set him apart was not just skill — it was judgment and decency. He understood what was actually at stake for my family and treated it with the seriousness it deserved, without ever losing his calm. He told me the truth, including when it was hard, and then he delivered. If you need a restraining order defense attorney in Massachusetts, hire Matthew Peterson. I say that as a client and as a fellow lawyer: he was everything I could have asked for, and more. Five stars is the ceiling on this form. He earned more.
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Prince
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I come to realize there's no perfect review but a review written from a place of honesty. I got involve with Law Office of Mathew W Peterson, thanks to a review from a client. I'm very happy that this law office is handled my sister's case. The office did every thing to ensure my sister's case with the board of Nursing got resolved favorably and she get to keep her license. We are very thankful to all the Attorneys especially Attorney William Manchinson. Special thanks to Franchette Rodriguez for always assuring my family that everything would be ok even when we had doubts. I and my family can't thank you guys enough. I will recommend this Law Firm to anyone who wants their case be treated with the utmost attention needed. This office delivered on their promise. Thank you, Prince
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Mian Sayo
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Highly recommended! Elijah is very professional, responsive, and knowledgeable. He made the whole process smooth and stress-free, and I truly appreciated his patience and guidance throughout. Excellent service and someone you can really trust.
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Dylan Hereford
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I had the pleasure of getting Attorney Manchinton to represent me at a Clerks Magistrate Hearing. I believe that helped turn this situation into a positive experience for myself. I believe without his help it would have been much more stressful. I thank him and all those at the office that helped too!
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