Charged with Armed Robbery in Massachusetts? Our Aggressive Criminal Defense Attorneys Are Ready to Defend You
If you’ve been charged with Armed Robbery in Massachusetts, the stakes are serious—and so is our defense. With offices in Boston and Salem, the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson provides aggressive, personalized legal representation for individuals facing serious criminal charges. As a trusted criminal defense law firm, our team includes experienced defense attorneys and a former prosecutor who brings valuable insight into how the Commonwealth builds its cases. Whether you’re in Suffolk County, Essex County, or surrounding areas like Cambridge, Somerville, Brookline, or Newton, we’re prepared to step in and defend your rights immediately.
Understanding Armed Robbery Charges in Massachusetts
Under Massachusetts law, Armed Robbery is governed by General Laws Chapter 265, Section 17. It involves taking money or property from another person while armed with a dangerous weapon. The law also covers situations where force or the threat of force is used.
This is a felony offense that can carry a sentence of up to life in state prison, depending on the circumstances. There is no room for error when your freedom and future are on the line. The prosecution must prove that you were armed and intended to steal—two serious elements that our Boston defense attorneys are trained to scrutinize and challenge in court.
How an Aggressive Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help
Our aggressive criminal defense attorneys do more than just show up to court. We take your case personally. From our offices in Boston and Salem, we begin every case with a detailed analysis of the evidence, witness statements, and any constitutional issues, such as unlawful searches or improper identifications.
Our approach often includes:
- Challenging the legality of police conduct
- Examining surveillance footage and forensic evidence
- Questioning eyewitness reliability
- Negotiating reduced charges where appropriate
- Preparing a solid defense strategy for trial
If you or a loved one is charged with Armed Robbery in Boston, Chelsea, Brighton, or nearby areas in Suffolk County, or in Salem, Lynn, Peabody, Saugus, or Swampscott in Essex County, reach out to our team today. We’re ready to listen and respond quickly to your legal crisis.
Penalties for Armed Robbery
Armed Robbery is considered one of the most serious offenses under Massachusetts law. According to Mass. General Laws Chapter 265, Section 17, individuals convicted of this crime may face harsh penalties, including the possibility of life imprisonment. In some situations, a mandatory minimum sentence may apply—meaning the judge has limited discretion in reducing the sentence.
Additional consequences include:
- Long-term incarceration in a state prison
- Significant probation periods after release
- A felony conviction that becomes part of your permanent record
- Loss of civil rights and future employment restrictions
- Enhanced penalties if the alleged victim is 60 years or older, or if a firearm or mask was used
These consequences can be life-altering. That’s why it’s essential to work with a knowledgeable Massachusetts defense attorney who understands how to challenge the evidence, suppress illegal procedures, and advocate for reduced or dismissed charges when possible.
Why Choose the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson
When you choose our Boston criminal defense law firm, you’re getting more than just an attorney—you’re getting a legal team that’s committed to defending your rights as if they were our own. We stand apart because:
- We have a former prosecutor on our team
- We bring courtroom-tested strategies and relentless advocacy
- We are familiar with the local courts and procedures in Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk counties
- We take pride in responsive communication and keeping you informed
- We know how to negotiate—but we’re also not afraid to go to trial
You deserve a defense team that won’t back down. Whether you’re facing charges in Cambridge, Brookline, Newton, or anywhere else in the region, we’re prepared to step in immediately.
Areas We Serve
From our law offices in Boston and Salem, we represent individuals across Eastern Massachusetts who are facing serious criminal charges. Our defense team regularly appears in courts throughout, but not limited to following areas:
- Suffolk County, including Boston, Chelsea, and Brighton
- Essex County, serving Salem, Lynn, Peabody, Swampscott, and Saugus
- Middlesex County, covering Cambridge, Somerville, and Newton
- Norfolk County, including Brookline, Quincy, Dedham, and surrounding communities
We understand that every city and courthouse operates differently, and we bring that local experience to every case we handle. Regardless of where you’re facing charges, we are ready to provide you with focused, strategic, and determined legal defense.
Take the First Step Toward Protecting Your Future
If you’re facing an Armed Robbery charge in Massachusetts, it’s crucial to act quickly. The earlier our team can review your case, the more options we may have to challenge the evidence and advocate for your rights. Contact the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson today to set up a strategy session. We’re here to provide honest advice, strong representation, and tireless advocacy at every step.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifies as Armed Robbery in Massachusetts?
Armed Robbery involves taking someone else’s property by force or threat while carrying a dangerous weapon. Even if the weapon is not used, its presence can lead to severe charges.
Can I be charged with Armed Robbery if I didn’t have a real weapon?
Yes. Under Massachusetts law, even pretending to have a weapon (like showing a fake gun) can qualify as Armed Robbery if it causes fear and is part of the act of stealing.
What are the potential defenses to an Armed Robbery charge?
Defenses may include mistaken identity, lack of intent, alibi, or evidence that no weapon was actually involved. An experienced Boston criminal defense attorney will evaluate all options.
Is Armed Robbery a violent crime in Massachusetts?
Yes, it is classified as a violent felony and carries some of the most serious penalties under state law.
Can a criminal record be sealed after an Armed Robbery conviction?
In most cases, violent felonies like Armed Robbery are not eligible for sealing. However, an attorney can review your situation to assess any possible options.