Charged with Home Invasion in Massachusetts? Our Boston Defense Attorney Is Prepared to Protect Your Rights
If you’ve been charged with Home Invasion in Massachusetts, you need legal representation that understands the serious consequences you’re facing. The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson is a trusted criminal defense law firm with offices located in both Boston and Salem, and we are ready to provide experienced and aggressive legal defense. With a team that includes a former prosecutor, our law firm brings valuable insight into how the state builds and prosecutes these cases. Whether you live in Boston, Brighton, or Chelsea in Suffolk County, or in Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, or Saugus in Essex County, our attorneys are ready to take your case personally and defend your rights.
Understanding Home Invasion Charges in Massachusetts
Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 265, Section 18C, Home Invasion is a felony that carries severe penalties. The law applies when someone knowingly enters another person’s dwelling while armed, and either uses force or threatens someone inside, or stays in the home knowing there are people present while armed. It’s a charge taken very seriously by courts throughout the Commonwealth.
According to the statute (M.G.L. c. 265 § 18C), the prosecution must prove the following elements beyond a reasonable doubt:
- The accused knowingly entered someone’s dwelling without permission.
- The accused was armed at the time of entry.
- The accused either used force, threatened someone inside, or remained inside knowing someone was home and armed.
If convicted, the mandatory minimum sentence is 20 years in state prison, without the possibility of parole. Because of these severe penalties, it’s essential to have a Massachusetts defense attorney who is deeply familiar with the law and how prosecutors approach violent crime charges.
Why Choose Our Criminal Defense Law Firm
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we understand that being charged with Home Invasion can have life-changing consequences. That’s why we approach each case with a combination of aggressive legal strategy and personal commitment. Our team consists of skilled Boston criminal defense attorneys, including a former prosecutor who understands the strategies the state uses against defendants.
We’re not just any criminal defense law firm. We are known throughout Massachusetts for our strong courtroom presence and for being a voice for those who feel overwhelmed by the legal system. We know that every case is unique, and we take the time to understand the details of your situation before building a defense tailored to you.
Our experience in handling assault and violent crime cases means we’re prepared to challenge the prosecution’s evidence, question the credibility of witnesses, and negotiate skillfully when necessary. We defend clients not only in Suffolk and Essex Counties but also in Cambridge, Somerville, and Newton in Middlesex County, as well as Brookline in Norfolk County.
How We Handle Home Invasion Charges
When you’re facing a Home Invasion charge, our priority is to protect your freedom and future. Our approach includes:
- Careful analysis of the evidence: We examine whether there was lawful entry, whether you were actually armed, and whether the alleged victim’s claims are consistent.
- Identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case: Was there a valid search warrant? Were your constitutional rights violated during arrest or questioning?
- Exploring all legal defenses: In some cases, mistaken identity, lack of intent, or even lawful presence in the home may be relevant.
- Pursuing reduction or dismissal of charges: If the facts support it, we work to get your charges reduced to lesser offenses or dismissed entirely.
- Courtroom preparation and trial advocacy: If your case proceeds to trial, we are ready to fight for you with solid preparation and courtroom skill.
Being accused of a crime like Home Invasion doesn’t make you guilty. Our role is to ensure your side of the story is told and that your rights are fully protected throughout the process.
Areas We Serve
Our criminal defense law firm represents individuals charged with Home Invasion across various counties in Massachusetts. Whether your case is being heard in a city courthouse or a smaller municipal court, we are prepared to advocate on your behalf.
We proudly serve clients in, but not limited to following areas:
- Suffolk County: Including Boston, Brighton, and Chelsea
- Essex County: Covering Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, and Saugus
- Middlesex County: Representing those in Cambridge, Somerville, and Newton
- Norfolk County: Providing defense in Brookline, Dedham, Quincy, and surrounding areas
No matter where you are located within these counties, you can rely on the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson for strategic and responsive legal defense.
Take the Next Step with an Experienced Massachusetts Defense Attorney
Being charged with a violent felony like Home Invasion can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we bring years of experience and a strategic approach to every case. We’ll work with you to examine the facts, protect your rights, and push back against the prosecution’s case. Contact us today to set up a confidential strategy session. We are here to help you understand your options and take action toward the best possible outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between burglary and home invasion in Massachusetts?
While both involve unlawful entry, home invasion under Massachusetts law requires that the person be armed and either use or threaten force on someone in the home. Burglary, by contrast, does not necessarily involve violence or an armed offender.
Can I be charged with home invasion even if I didn’t hurt anyone?
Yes. A person can be charged if they enter a home while armed and threaten or frighten someone inside, even if no one is physically harmed. The mere presence of a weapon and the threat of violence can be enough under the law.
What are the penalties for home invasion in Massachusetts?
A conviction carries a minimum of 20 years in prison and could be longer depending on the facts of the case. It is a felony that cannot be resolved with probation or parole.
Can a home invasion charge be reduced?
In some cases, yes. If the evidence does not support the charge or your constitutional rights were violated, a skilled Boston defense attorney may be able to negotiate a reduction to a lesser offense or seek dismissal.
How soon should I speak to a criminal defense attorney after being charged?
Immediately. The earlier you involve an attorney, the more options you have to build a strong defense. Contact our law firm today to set up a strategy session and begin planning your defense.