Charged with Armed Burglary? Our Defense Attorney Is Ready to Fight for You
If you’ve been charged with Armed Burglary in Massachusetts, your future is at stake—and the decisions you make now can significantly affect the outcome of your case. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we provide strategic and aggressive criminal defense representation for individuals accused of assault and violent crimes, including armed burglary. With offices located in both Boston and Salem, our team is positioned to serve clients across Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk counties.
Our criminal defense law firm includes former prosecutors who bring valuable insight into how the Commonwealth builds and prosecutes cases. We use that insider perspective to create strong defense strategies tailored to each client’s unique circumstances. Whether you live in Boston, Brighton, Chelsea, Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, Saugus, or cities like Cambridge, Somerville, Newton, or Brookline, we are prepared to defend your rights in and out of the courtroom.
Understanding Armed Burglary Charges in Massachusetts
Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 266, Section 14 (Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 266, § 14), armed burglary is defined as entering a dwelling at night with the intent to commit a felony while being armed with a dangerous weapon. It is considered a felony offense, and the penalties are severe. A conviction could result in:
- Up to life imprisonment
- Mandatory minimum sentencing (if certain aggravating factors apply)
- A permanent felony conviction on your record
- Loss of civil rights, including firearm ownership and voting eligibility
Massachusetts treats this crime with the utmost seriousness. If someone is injured, if there is evidence of possession of a weapon, or if the accused has prior offenses, the consequences can escalate quickly.
Why Choose the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson?
Our team of Massachusetts defense attorneys is known for handling complex, high-stakes cases involving assault and violent crime, including armed burglary. We approach each case with a clear understanding of what’s at risk—and we take your case personally.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- We are aggressive in the courtroom: We don’t just manage cases—we fight them. We challenge evidence, question procedures, and never back down from a legal battle.
- We understand how prosecutors think: Our team includes a former prosecutor, giving us the ability to anticipate strategies used against you.
- We serve a broad range of cities: From Suffolk County to Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk, we represent clients in Boston, Salem, and beyond.
- We treat every case with care: You’re not just another file. We build a personalized strategy with attention to detail, facts, and your future.
Areas We Serve
With offices in both Boston and Salem, our criminal defense team represents individuals across a wide range of cities and towns in Massachusetts. We are proud to serve communities throughout, but not limited to following areas:
- Suffolk County, including Boston, Brighton, Chelsea, and Revere
- Essex County, including Salem, Lynn, Peabody, Swampscott, and Saugus
- Middlesex County, including Cambridge, Somerville, and Newton
- Norfolk County, including Brookline, Quincy, and Dedham
No matter where you are located within these regions, our attorneys are prepared to stand by your side. If you’re facing an armed burglary charge in any of these communities, we’ll bring the same level of commitment and focus to your case. Our experience across multiple county courts allows us to adapt to local procedures and deliver a well-prepared defense.
Building a Defense Against Armed Burglary Charges
To obtain a conviction for armed burglary, the prosecution must prove several specific elements: that you entered someone’s home at night, intended to commit a felony, and were armed with a dangerous weapon during the incident. These are serious allegations—but they must be backed by credible, lawful evidence.
Our role is to examine every part of the case with a critical eye. We evaluate how evidence was collected, whether your rights were violated during any part of the investigation, and whether the charges match the facts. We also challenge any assumptions or weaknesses in witness statements or police reports.
Our team understands the tactics prosecutors use and how to counter them effectively. Whether we pursue dismissal, reduced charges, or prepare for trial, your defense will be built on careful analysis and sound legal strategy. From day one, we aim to protect your rights, preserve your reputation, and minimize the impact this charge has on your life.
If you’ve been charged, do not speak to law enforcement without a criminal defense attorney present. What you say can and will be used against you.
What to Expect When You Work With Us
From the moment you contact us, we begin assessing your case to identify key facts, potential defenses, and legal issues. We’ll lay out exactly what to do next and what to anticipate at every stage of your case. Your future, independence, and reputation are our top priorities.
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we believe in honest communication and straight answers. You won’t get false promises—just reliable representation from experienced Boston criminal defense attorneys who understand how to fight serious charges like armed burglary.
Contact Us to Set Up a Strategy Session
Facing a charge of armed burglary is not something you should navigate alone. With life-altering consequences on the line, having the right legal team can make all the difference. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, our experienced Boston criminal defense attorneys take a hands-on approach to every case. Our purpose is to hear, counsel, and act. Contact us now to set up a strategy session and take the first step toward protecting your future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for Armed Burglary in Massachusetts?
Armed burglary in Massachusetts can carry a sentence of up to life in prison, especially if the dwelling was occupied or if a dangerous weapon was used. Sentencing is based on the facts of the case and whether any aggravating factors apply.
Can I be charged with armed burglary if no one was home?
Yes. According to state law, entering a dwelling with intent to commit a felony, while armed, qualifies—even if the home was unoccupied at the time.
What should I do if I’m arrested for armed burglary?
Do not speak to police without a criminal defense attorney present. Contact a Boston criminal defense attorney immediately to begin developing your defense strategy.
Is armed burglary considered a violent crime in Massachusetts?
Yes, it falls under the category of assault and violent crime, especially if force, threat, or weapons were involved.
Can a former conviction impact my armed burglary case?
Absolutely. Prior convictions can lead to enhanced penalties or influence how your case is prosecuted. It’s crucial to have an aggressive criminal defense attorney who understands how to handle repeat offense scenarios.