How the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson Protected a Client’s Rights After a Improper Storage of a Firearm Incident in West Roxbury

Written By: Matthew W. Peterson

Published: 02/24/2025

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Case Overview for Improper Storage of Firearm Incident in West Roxbury

The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson successfully defended a client who faced charges of improper storage of firearm after his licensed firearm was stolen from his car. Despite doing the right thing and reporting the theft to the authorities, the client’s license to carry was suspended, and he was charged with unlawful firearm storage. Facing the risk of two years in jail and the loss of his license to carry, the client turned to Attorney Matthew W. Peterson. Through strategic legal expertise, the charges were dismissed, and the client’s license was reinstated.

Firm Expertise

The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson is a leading authority in firearms law in Massachusetts, renowned for its personalized and rigorous defense strategies. This case involved a Massachusetts resident who, in attempting to abide by the law by reporting his stolen firearm to the Boston Police Department, found himself facing criminal charges and the suspension of his license to carry. This case highlights Attorney Peterson’s commitment to ensuring justice is served and demonstrates his ability to turn challenging circumstances into successful outcomes for his clients.

The Client's Challenge

Our client, a responsible firearm owner, encountered a situation that any gun owner could potentially face. After briefly leaving his properly licensed firearm in his car, it was stolen. Acting responsibly, he immediately notified the Boston Police Department of the theft, fulfilling his legal and moral duty as a gun owner. Unfortunately, instead of commending his prompt action, the authorities turned the situation against him.

He was charged with improper storage of a firearm under Massachusetts law, which requires firearms to be stored in a locked container or secured with a trigger lock when not under the direct control of the owner. The penalty for this misdemeanor includes up to two years in jail. Furthermore, his license to carry was suspended, leaving him exposed to further complications. This situation created unnecessary stress and an overwhelming legal challenge for our client. Although he had acted responsibly, he faced grave legal repercussions that could have significantly impacted his freedom and rights.

Strategic Legal Intervention

Attorney Matthew W. Peterson stepped in to advocate for the client, using his in-depth knowledge of Massachusetts firearms law and exceptional legal strategy to address both the criminal charges and the license suspension.

Step 1: Dismissal of Charges

The first priority was to defend the client during the clerk magistrate’s hearing, where the improper storage charges were reviewed. Attorney Peterson thoroughly scrutinized the circumstances and presented a compelling argument, demonstrating the client’s actions were not only responsible but legally justified given the situation. His efforts convinced the magistrate to dismiss the charges, sparing the client the risk of facing jail time and a criminal record.

Step 2: License Reinstatement

Next, Attorney Peterson focused on the suspension of the client’s license to carry. Leveraging his expertise, he identified an applicable state law specifically designed to protect gun owners in such cases. The law clearly states that individuals who report a stolen firearm cannot be deemed “unsuitable” for holding a license to carry, nor should their license be suspended for making such a report. Attorney Peterson built a strong, evidence-based appeal and engaged directly with the Boston Police Department, presenting the relevant legal provisions. His argument was unassailable, and the police ultimately agreed to reinstate the client’s license to carry.

Successful Outcomes

The intervention by the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson achieved a full resolution for the client, reinforcing faith in the legal system while protecting the rights of responsible firearm owners.

Key Outcomes:

Dismissal of Charges: The criminal charges of improper firearm storage were fully dismissed during the clerk magistrate’s hearing, avoiding potential jail time and preserving the client’s clean record.
License to Carry Reinstated: The Boston Police Department was persuaded to lift the license suspension, ensuring the client retained his lawful ability to carry a firearm.
Legal Precedent Highlighted: Attorney Peterson’s use of a specific law designed to protect firearm owners who responsibly report stolen weapons not only won the case but highlighted protections that other firearm owners may not be aware of.

Final Thoughts

This case illustrates the critical importance of having an experienced and knowledgeable advocate when your rights are at risk, especially in complex legal matters like firearms law. The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson not only resolved the immediate issues for the client but also reaffirmed the protections under Massachusetts law that safeguard responsible gun owners.

If you are facing firearms-related charges or a license suspension, don’t leave your future to chance. Massachusetts’ premier firearms attorney is here to help. Protect your rights and secure your peace of mind. Don’t hesitate to contact the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson now!