Charged with Strangulation or Suffocation? Our Boston Defense Attorney Is Ready to Stand Up for You
If you or a loved one is facing a charge of Strangulation or Suffocation in Massachusetts, the stakes are high—and the consequences can be life-altering. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we understand the gravity of these charges. With offices conveniently located in Boston and Salem, our criminal defense law firm is positioned to serve individuals across Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk Counties, including cities like Cambridge, Somerville, Newton, Brookline, Lynn, Peabody, and Chelsea.
We are a team of aggressive criminal defense attorneys, including a former prosecutor who brings valuable insight from the other side of the courtroom. Our law firm is recognized for direct communication, courtroom strategy, and taking every case personally. If you’re searching for a Boston criminal defense attorney with the knowledge and experience to navigate assault and violent crime charges, including Strangulation or Suffocation, we are ready to defend your rights.
What Is Strangulation or Suffocation Under Massachusetts Law?
Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 265, Section 15D, Strangulation and Suffocation are felonies. The statute defines Strangulation as intentionally impeding normal breathing or circulation of blood by applying pressure on the throat or neck. Suffocation involves impeding breathing by blocking the nose or mouth. These offenses are taken seriously due to the potential risk of harm, even if no physical injury occurred.
Penalties for a conviction can include:
- Up to 5 years in state prison or 2.5 years in a house of correction
- A fine of up to $5,000
- Mandatory participation in a batterer’s intervention program
- Potential protective orders or restraining orders
- A permanent criminal record
What If You're Accused Without Evidence of Injury?
It’s important to know that a person can be charged with Strangulation or Suffocation even if there are no visible injuries. The law focuses on the act of impeding breathing or circulation, not necessarily the outcome. This is why it is critical to have a Massachusetts defense attorney who understands the legal definitions and can challenge assumptions made by law enforcement or prosecutors.
Our Boston defense attorneys work to uncover weaknesses in the prosecution’s case—whether it’s inconsistent witness statements, a lack of physical evidence, or errors in police reports. We are skilled in identifying where assumptions may have replaced facts and building a strategy to protect your rights.
How Our Criminal Defense Law Firm Defends These Charges
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we start every case by listening closely to your side of the story. Once we understand the facts, we build a defense based on:
- Detailed investigation of the incident
- Reviewing police procedures and potential rights violations
- Analyzing any existing medical or forensic evidence
- Interviewing witnesses or identifying alternate accounts
- Exploring self-defense or false allegation defenses
We’re known as a trusted criminal defense law firm in Massachusetts that takes an assertive approach without relying on drama or fear tactics. We prefer clear communication and a well-prepared case. Every legal strategy is tailored specifically to your circumstances.
Why Choose the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson?
We’re more than just attorneys—we are advocates who stand beside you throughout the process. Whether the case involves a misunderstanding, a heated argument, or a false allegation, we never treat clients like case numbers. Our team includes a former prosecutor, offering insight into how the other side builds their case.
We focus exclusively on criminal defense, with particular strength in handling assault and violent crime charges like Strangulation or Suffocation. With a reputation for being an aggressive criminal defense attorney in court, we will protect your rights, explore every defense opportunity, and aim for the best possible outcome.
Where We Defend Clients
We defend individuals in Boston, Brighton, Chelsea, Cambridge, Somerville, Newton, Brookline, Dedham, and Quincy. Our Boston criminal defense attorneys regularly appear in courts throughout Suffolk, Middlesex, Norfolk, and Essex counties, including the cities and towns of:
Our Boston and Salem office locations make us easily accessible to those living or working in the surrounding communities. We are ready to act quickly and decisively on your behalf.
Ready to Defend Your Rights in Court?
If you’ve been charged with Strangulation or Suffocation in Massachusetts, don’t wait. The prosecution may already be building its case against you. Our law firm will move quickly to examine the details, prepare your defense, and help you understand every step of the process. Contact the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson today to set up a strategy session. Whether you’re in Boston, Salem, or any of the surrounding areas, we are prepared to fight for your future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Strangulation or Suffocation always charged as a felony in Massachusetts?
Yes. Under Massachusetts law, both strangulation and suffocation are felony offenses, even without visible injury or lasting harm.
What happens if I’m falsely accused?
False accusations can and do happen. Our attorneys work to gather evidence that supports your version of events and challenge the credibility or inconsistencies in the accuser’s story. Having the right Boston defense attorney can make a significant difference.
Can these charges be dropped?
In some cases, yes. The prosecutor may choose to drop charges if the evidence is weak or if new information arises. However, even if an alleged victim wants to drop the charge, the decision lies with the District Attorney.
What if this happened during a domestic dispute?
Many Strangulation or Suffocation charges arise from domestic incidents. Massachusetts takes domestic violence very seriously, and these cases are often fast-tracked. It’s crucial to work with a criminal defense law firm that understands the sensitivity and complexity involved.
How soon should I speak with a attorney?
Immediately. The sooner you talk to a Massachusetts defense attorney, the better prepared you’ll be to handle arraignments, court dates, and any interactions with police or investigators. Contact us now to schedule a strategy session.