Charged With a Crime in Ipswich, MA? An Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney Is Ready to Stand by You
If you have been charged with a criminal offense in Ipswich, MA, the legal process can feel overwhelming. The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, with offices in Boston and Salem, is committed to helping individuals facing charges in Ipswich District Court and throughout Essex County. Our team includes aggressive Ipswich defense attorneys and a former prosecutor who brings insider knowledge to every case. Known as a Top-rated criminal defense law firm in Massachusetts, we take every case seriously and provide trusted representation for clients accused of a wide range of offenses.
As your Ipswich Criminal Defense Attorney, we understand the high stakes involved. From white-collar crime to violent offenses, Massachusetts law provides strict penalties that can have lasting consequences. Our role is to guide you through the criminal justice system, protect your rights, and work toward the best outcome possible. Whether your case involves a misdemeanor or a felony, our legal team is prepared to take a strong stand in court on your behalf.

Why You Need an Ipswich District Court Defense Attorney
The Ipswich District Court handles many types of criminal cases, including those related to theft, drug possession, assault, and other common offenses under Massachusetts law. Having a skilled Ipswich District Court defense attorney can make a difference in how your case is presented and resolved. Every stage of the criminal process, from arraignment to trial, carries challenges that should not be faced alone.
Our attorneys use experience, strategic planning, and thorough knowledge of Massachusetts General Laws to represent clients. We are focused on both immediate defense and long-term protection of your future. With careful preparation, negotiation, or courtroom advocacy, our legal team works tirelessly to build strong defenses tailored to each client’s situation.
Criminal Charges We Handle in Ipswich, MA
Our law firm represents clients facing a wide range of criminal charges in Ipswich District Court and throughout Essex County. Whether you are accused of a misdemeanor or a serious felony, these cases can have lasting consequences on your freedom, reputation, and future. As an experienced Massachusetts defense attorney, we handle cases involving white-collar crime, drug crime, theft and property crime, assault and violent offenses, motor vehicle-related offenses, sexual offenses, firearms charges, public order violations, and more. No matter the charge, our team is prepared to provide strong advocacy and protect your rights at every stage of the process.

Assault and Violent Crime
Violent crimes such as assault and battery are addressed under MGL c.265. These charges can carry harsh penalties, including incarceration and permanent criminal records. Depending on the circumstances, cases may be classified as misdemeanors or felonies, with sentencing influenced by factors like injury and use of a weapon.
Our law firm aggressively defends clients accused of violent crimes by investigating all circumstances, challenging unreliable testimony, and ensuring due process. We aim to protect your freedom and reputation when facing these serious allegations.
Firearms Charges
Firearms-related crimes are covered under MGL c.140 and MGL c.269. Charges may include unlawful possession, carrying without a license, or improper storage while committing another crime. Penalties can include mandatory minimum sentences.
Our legal team has experience defending firearms cases in Ipswich District Court. We carefully review firearm licensing issues, procedural errors, and constitutional protections to give clients the strongest defense possible.
Sexual Offenses
Sexual offenses in Massachusetts are governed by MGL c.265 and MGL c.272. Convictions can carry some of the harshest penalties, including long prison sentences, mandatory sex offender registration, and lifelong restrictions. The impact on personal and professional life is significant.
As a Top-rated criminal defense law firm in Massachusetts, we understand the sensitivity of sexual offense cases. We work diligently to build strong defenses, protect your rights, and ensure that every aspect of your case is handled with care and professionalism.
White-Collar Crime
White-collar crimes in Massachusetts typically involve fraud, deception, or financial misconduct. Under MGL c.266, crimes such as embezzlement, larceny by false pretenses, and credit card fraud are prohibited and carry severe penalties. Convictions can lead to fines, restitution, and even imprisonment, depending on the amount of financial loss.
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we defend clients accused of white-collar crimes with discretion and attention to detail. We understand the complexity of financial investigations and are prepared to challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and protect your reputation in and out of court.
Drug Crime
Drug crimes fall under MGL c.94C, covering offenses such as possession, distribution, or trafficking of controlled substances. Massachusetts law categorizes drugs into different classes, with penalties based on the type and amount of the substance. Convictions can result in incarceration, loss of driving privileges, and long-term consequences for employment and education.
We provide defense for individuals charged with drug crimes in Ipswich District Court by challenging unlawful searches, questioning evidence handling, and negotiating for reduced penalties where possible. Our goal is to safeguard your rights while pursuing favorable outcomes.
Theft and Property Crime
Theft and property crimes are governed by MGL c.266 and include offenses such as larceny, burglary, shoplifting, and vandalism. Penalties vary depending on the value of the property involved, with higher-value thefts classified as felonies. Even misdemeanor theft charges can result in fines, probation, and a criminal record that impacts employment opportunities.
Our firm takes theft and property charges seriously, offering strategic defenses designed to protect your record. As an aggressive criminal defense attorney, we fight to minimize the impact of these charges on your future and explore every legal option available.
Motor Vehicle Offenses
Motor vehicle crimes are outlined under MGL c.90 and include OUI/DUI to operating without a license, or reckless driving. These offenses can result in fines, license suspension, increased insurance rates, and even jail time in serious cases.
As an Ipswich Criminal Defense Attorney, we are experienced in handling motor vehicle cases and protecting clients from severe penalties. Our attorneys examine every detail, from police reports to field sobriety tests, to ensure your rights were not violated during the arrest process.
Public Order Offenses
Public order offenses include charges such as disturbing the peace and disorderly conduct under MGL c.272. Though sometimes treated as misdemeanors, these offenses can still have lasting effects on criminal records and future opportunities.
Our attorneys treat every public order case with importance. We work to minimize the impact on your life and fight to protect your record while guiding you through the legal process step by step.
Why Choose Our Massachusetts Defense Attorney
Choosing the right attorney for your case is critical. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we combine insider knowledge from a former prosecutor with aggressive defense strategies. We have a strong record of defending clients in Ipswich District Court and other courts throughout Essex County. With offices in both Boston and Salem, our team is accessible to clients across the North Shore of Massachusetts.
We know your case is personal, and we provide personalized strategies to meet your unique needs. Our focus is always on protecting your rights, your record, and your future.
Contact an Ipswich Criminal Defense Attorney Today
If you are facing charges in Ipswich, MA, you need an attorney who understands Massachusetts criminal laws and how the Ipswich District Court system operates. The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson has extensive experience defending clients in Ipswich and throughout Essex County. Our top-rated criminal defense law firm in Massachusetts is committed to protecting your rights and pursuing the best possible outcome in your case. Whether you are charged with a misdemeanor or a serious felony, our attorneys are prepared to provide aggressive defense and knowledgeable guidance. Contact us now to set up a strategy session and take the first step toward protecting your future.