Jury Finds Client NOT GUILTY of Domestic Violence in Fall River

Written By: Matthew W. Peterson

Published: 02/16/2023

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Successful Defense Against Domestic Violence in Fall River District Court

On February 16, 2023, the Law Office of Matthew Peterson achieved a significant victory of domestic violence in Fall River District Court. Attorney Matthew Peterson represented a client who faced serious charges of assault and battery against a family or household member. After an intense one-day jury trial, the jury returned a verdict of NOT GUILTY, allowing our client to avoid the severe repercussions that accompany a domestic violence conviction.

Case Overview

The case centered around an incident involving our client and his live-in girlfriend. The alleged altercation was reported to the police the day after it occurred, raising questions about the timeline and reliability of the allegations. The prosecution presented photographs depicting bruises and scratches on the alleged victim, which they argued were evidence of our client’s guilt.

However, our defense strategy focused on several critical points that undermined the credibility of the accusations. We highlighted the delay in reporting the incident and provided alternative explanations for the injuries sustained by the alleged victim.

Key Defense Strategies

Delay in Reporting: One of the cornerstones of our defense was questioning why the alleged victim did not report the incident immediately. This delay raised doubts about her account and suggested that her story may have been influenced by other factors.
Alternative Explanations for Injuries: Our investigation revealed that the alleged victim had visited a theme park just prior to the incident, where she had engaged in activities such as riding roller coasters. We argued that these activities could have resulted in her bruises and scratches, providing a plausible explanation for her injuries that did not involve our client.
Testimony from Our Client: During the trial, our client took the stand to share his side of the story. He admitted that a physical altercation occurred but maintained that he was not the aggressor. He testified that it was the alleged victim who had initiated the confrontation by grabbing and hitting him. This testimony was crucial in establishing reasonable doubt.
Inconsistencies in Testimony: Throughout the trial, we pointed out several inconsistencies in the alleged victim’s account of events. By demonstrating that her story changed over time and lacked coherence, we effectively argued that her testimony could not be trusted beyond a reasonable doubt.

Understanding Massachusetts Domestic Violence Laws

Massachusetts has stringent laws regarding domestic violence offenses, defined under General Laws Chapter 265, Section 13M. These laws encompass various forms of abuse against family or household members, including physical harm, threats, and emotional abuse. Convictions can lead to severe consequences such as:

Jail time
Fines
Protective orders
Mandatory counseling programs
Impact on child custody arrangements

Recent updates to Massachusetts laws have also reinforced protections for victims while ensuring due process for those accused. For instance, changes made in 2021 emphasize support for victims through enhanced resources while maintaining stringent standards for evidence in domestic violence cases.

The Verdict

After careful consideration of all evidence presented during the trial, the jury reached a unanimous verdict of NOT GUILTY. This outcome was not just a legal victory; it meant that our client would not face jail time or any other penalties associated with a domestic violence conviction, which can include mandatory counseling, probation, or loss of firearm rights under Massachusetts law.

Why You Need an Experienced Attorney

Facing domestic violence charges can be daunting and life-altering. If you find yourself in such a situation, it is essential to seek representation from an experienced attorney who understands both the legal landscape and your rights. At the Law Office of Matthew Peterson, we are committed to providing personalized legal strategies tailored to your unique circumstances.

We understand that every case is different and requires careful examination of facts and evidence. Our approach is thorough and detail-oriented; we work diligently to build a strong defense that protects your interests.

Get Started on Your Defense Today

If you or someone you know is facing charges related to domestic violence in Massachusetts, do not hesitate to reach out for help. The stakes are high, and having knowledgeable legal representation can make all the difference in your case outcome.

Contact us at 617-295-7500 via call or text to schedule a strategic session. Together, we can explore your options and develop an effective defense strategy tailored to your situation.

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