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 reported the incident to police the day after and did not call the night of. The Commonwealth introduced pictures of bruises and scratches.
Our defense focused on the delay in reporting and other explanations for the scratches. The alleged victim had gone to a theme park the day before and ridden roller coasters, which could have explained the bruises. Additionally, our client testified that the parties did get into a physical altercation, but the alleged victim was actually the aggressor.
Our client testified that the alleged victim grabbed him and hit him, but he did not attack her. We also pointed to inconsistencies in the alleged victim’s story over several different versions and argued that the jury could not believe her beyond a reasonable doubt.
The jury agreed, finding our client not guilty of assault and battery on a family/household member. This means our client does not face jail time or any of the other consequences for a domestic violence conviction.
If you are facing a domestic violence charge in Massachusetts, it’s critical to hire an experienced attorney to help. Call me or text me at 617-295-7500, and let’s get started on your defense!