Charged with Domestic Violence in Massachusetts? Our Boston Defense Attorneys Are Ready to Protect Your Rights
If you’ve been accused of Domestic Violence in Massachusetts, you’re facing serious legal consequences that can impact your freedom, career, and reputation. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we understand the stakes involved. With offices in Boston and Salem, our team of aggressive criminal defense attorneys is committed to protecting the rights of individuals charged with assault and violent crime, including Domestic Violence, across Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk counties.
Our criminal defense law firm brings decades of courtroom experience to your case, including insights from a former prosecutor. We are known across Massachusetts for our dedicated, strategic, and straightforward representation. Whether your case is in Boston, Brighton, Chelsea, or nearby towns like Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, and Saugus, we are ready to stand by your side.
Domestic Violence Charges in Massachusetts: What You Need to Know
Under Massachusetts law, “Domestic Violence” is not a specific charge. Instead, it refers to crimes committed against a family or household member, including spouses, dating partners, roommates, or relatives. These crimes are typically charged as assault, assault and battery, or threats, with added seriousness due to the domestic relationship.
According to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 209A, courts take a proactive stance in protecting alleged victims of domestic abuse, often issuing restraining orders and no-contact orders early in the process. This can have an immediate effect on where you live, whether you can see your children, and how you conduct your daily life—even before your case reaches trial.
The state also follows a mandatory arrest policy in most domestic assault cases. If police have probable cause to believe a domestic assault occurred, they are required to make an arrest, even if the alleged victim does not want to press charges.
We Handle a Wide Range of Domestic Violence-Related Charges
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, our team defends clients against various charges that fall under the category of domestic violence. These cases often involve accusations between people in close relationships—such as spouses, dating partners, former partners, or family members living in the same household.
We represent individuals facing charges such as:
- Assault and Battery on a Family or Household Member – One of the most common charges in domestic violence cases, involving physical contact or harm.
- Violating a Restraining or Protective Order – Allegations of breaking court-imposed conditions, such as no-contact orders, can lead to additional charges.
- Criminal Threats – If someone claims you made verbal or written threats of harm, you may be charged even without any physical action.
- Harassment or Stalking – Repeated unwanted contact, following, or communication can lead to serious criminal accusations.
- Witness Intimidation – Any attempt to influence, threaten, or prevent someone from testifying or reporting an incident can result in felony charges.
These cases can be highly complex. Allegations may arise from misunderstandings, false reports, or emotionally charged situations. Prosecutors often continue with the case even if the other party doesn’t want to press charges, relying on independent evidence like photos, text messages, and police reports. Our job is to challenge the assumptions made in these cases and work toward the best possible result for you.
Why Choose Our Massachusetts Defense Attorneys?
Domestic violence charges often move fast in the Massachusetts court system. You may be facing arraignment, pretrial conditions, and restraining orders within days. Our law firm understands how critical early intervention is.
Here’s what sets our Boston criminal defense attorneys apart:
- We know the system – With a former prosecutor on our team, we understand how cases are built and where weaknesses lie.
- Aggressive and thorough representation – We don’t take a passive approach. We dig into the facts, challenge evidence, and advocate forcefully for your rights.
- Tailored strategies – Every case is different. Whether your goal is dismissal, reduced charges, or a not guilty verdict, we build a defense around your specific circumstances.
- Courtroom experience in multiple counties – We defend clients in Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk counties, including Cambridge, Somerville, Newton, and Brookline.
Legal and Personal Consequences of a Domestic Violence Conviction
Being convicted of a domestic violence-related offense in Massachusetts can carry serious legal and life-altering consequences. The penalties may include:
- Incarceration (up to 2.5 years for misdemeanor assault and battery)
- Supervised probation, often with mandatory counseling or anger management programs
- Loss of the legal right to own or carry firearms under state law (M.G.L. c. 140, § 129B)
- A permanent entry on your criminal record
- Immigration issues, including potential removal or denial of status
- Barriers to employment, professional licensing, and child custody
Beyond court-imposed penalties, these charges can affect nearly every part of your personal and professional life. Our role as your defense attorney is to prevent long-term damage by challenging the evidence and minimizing the impact on your future.
How We Approach Domestic Violence Defense
Defending against a domestic violence charge takes more than just legal knowledge—it requires attention to detail, strategic thinking, and a clear understanding of your specific circumstances. Our criminal defense team evaluates every angle to build a defense that reflects your side of the story.
Possible defenses may include:
- False or exaggerated accusations, often during custody disputes or tense breakups
- Self-defense, where the accused responded to a legitimate threat
- No criminal intent, showing the incident was accidental or misinterpreted
- Insufficient or flawed evidence, especially when the state relies on hearsay or inconsistent testimony
Every case we take receives a thorough review of police reports, witness interviews, physical evidence, and digital communication. Our job is to uncover weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and present a clear, credible defense on your behalf. When you work with our Boston criminal defense attorneys, you can expect a legal strategy that’s built around your goals and the facts—not assumptions.
Serving Clients Across Eastern Massachusetts
With offices located in Boston and Salem, our law firm provides legal defense services to individuals throughout Eastern Massachusetts. We routinely appear in courts across, but not limited to, the following areas:
- Suffolk County: including Boston, Brighton, and Chelsea
- Essex County: including Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, and Saugus
- Middlesex County: including Cambridge, Somerville, and Newton
- Norfolk County: including Brookline, Quincy, and Dedham
No matter where your case is pending, you can expect consistent communication, thorough preparation, and an aggressive approach tailored to your situation. Our team of experienced criminal defense attorneys is prepared to step in early and help protect your rights throughout the legal process.
Contact Our Boston and Salem Defense Attorneys Today
If you’ve been charged with Domestic Violence or any assault and violent crime in Massachusetts, time is not on your side. The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson offers straightforward, strategic legal guidance when you need it most.
Contact us now to set up a strategy session and take the first step toward defending your rights. Whether your case is in Boston, Salem, or anywhere across Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, or Norfolk County, our team is ready to help you navigate the legal process with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I be charged with domestic violence even if the alleged victim doesn’t want to press charges?
Yes. In Massachusetts, the decision to file or drop charges rests with the prosecutor, not the alleged victim.
What happens at a domestic violence arraignment?
At arraignment, the judge will formally read the charges and may set bail or issue a restraining order. It’s critical to have a defense attorney present.
Will a domestic violence charge stay on my record?
Unless the case is dismissed or sealed, a conviction or even a continuance without a finding (CWOF) can remain on your record and impact your future.
What if it was just a verbal argument—can I still be charged?
Yes. Verbal threats can lead to charges like “threats to commit a crime,” even if no physical harm occurred.
Do I have to move out of my home after being charged?
If a restraining order is issued, you may be required to leave your residence and avoid contact with the alleged victim.