Charged with Drug Trafficking in Massachusetts? Our Aggressive Criminal Defense Attorneys Are Ready to Defend Your Rights
If you or a loved one has been charged with Drug Trafficking in Massachusetts, the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson is here to help. With offices located in both Boston and Salem, our criminal defense law firm provides strategic legal representation across Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk Counties. Our team includes experienced defense attorneys and a former prosecutor, giving us critical insight into how the Commonwealth builds its cases. Whether you are facing charges in Boston, Lynn, Chelsea, or Cambridge, we are committed to defending your rights and helping you through every step of the legal process.
Drug Trafficking is a serious criminal charge in Massachusetts that carries severe penalties, including mandatory minimum prison sentences. Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 94C, trafficking charges can be brought against someone in possession of a certain quantity of illegal drugs such as cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, or methamphetamine, regardless of whether there is evidence of selling. Being arrested does not mean you are guilty, and it’s crucial to have a skilled Massachusetts criminal defense attorney who understands how to challenge the evidence and advocate for the best possible outcome.
Understanding Drug Trafficking Charges in Massachusetts
In Massachusetts, Drug Trafficking is a serious criminal offense governed by Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 94C. These laws cover the manufacturing, distribution, and possession with intent to distribute illegal drugs, including heroin, cocaine, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and prescription narcotics.
Drug Trafficking charges are typically based on the weight of the controlled substance found in your possession. For example, under M.G.L. c. 94C §32E, possessing over 18 grams of heroin or over 36 grams of cocaine can lead to mandatory minimum sentences, even for first-time offenders. The penalties can increase substantially based on the amount, prior convictions, and whether a firearm or school zone was involved.
If convicted, you could face years of incarceration, substantial fines, and long-term consequences such as loss of employment opportunities, driver’s license suspension, and restrictions on housing or financial aid.
That’s why you need a Massachusetts defense attorney who not only understands the law but also knows how to apply it to your advantage in real-world scenarios.
How Our Criminal Defense Attorneys Defend Drug Trafficking Charges
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we approach every drug crime case with a clear strategy and personalized attention. Our defense attorneys understand the complexities of Massachusetts drug laws and how prosecutors build these cases. That insider knowledge enables us to identify flaws in the evidence and challenge unlawful searches, improper procedures, or weak witness testimony.
Some of the defense strategies we may pursue include:
- Challenging the legality of the stop or search
- Investigating whether your rights were violated during arrest or questioning
- Questioning the chain of custody of the seized substances
- Filing motions to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence
- Negotiating to reduce the charges based on insufficient evidence
Every case is different. That’s why we begin by listening to your story and reviewing every detail of your situation before building a customized defense.
Serving Clients Across Eastern Massachusetts
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, our criminal defense attorneys represent individuals facing drug trafficking charges throughout Eastern Massachusetts. From our offices in Boston and Salem, we provide legal support in a wide range of communities. Whether your case is being heard in a district court or a superior court, we are equipped to defend you at every stage.
We work with clients in, but not limited to following areas:
- Suffolk County – including Boston, Brighton, West Roxbury, and Chelsea
- 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 your charges arise, our defense attorneys bring the same level of focus, preparation, and determination to every case.
Why Choose Our Criminal Defense Law Firm?
When you’re facing serious charges like Drug Trafficking, you deserve more than just legal advice—you need a team that is responsive, strategic, and determined. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson:
- We bring insider knowledge from a former prosecutor who knows how the other side thinks
- We are known for aggressive courtroom representation and attention to detail
- We take your case personally, offering realistic advice and honest communication
- We focus exclusively on criminal defense—we know the system and how to work within it
- We are a trusted criminal defense law firm across Massachusetts
Contact Us Now to Set Up a Strategy Session
If you’ve been charged with Drug Trafficking in Boston, Salem, or any nearby city in Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, or Norfolk County, the time to act is now. The earlier we begin working on your defense, the more options we may have to protect your freedom. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we are committed to giving your case the time, attention, and strategy it deserves. Our aggressive criminal defense attorneys are ready to represent you in court and help you navigate this difficult time with confidence. Contact us today to schedule a strategy session and start building your defense.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the penalties for Drug Trafficking in Massachusetts?
Penalties depend on the type and weight of the drug. For example, trafficking 36–100 grams of cocaine may carry a mandatory minimum sentence of 3 years in prison under M.G.L. c. 94C §32E. The penalties increase with higher weights or subsequent offenses.
Can Drug Trafficking charges be reduced or dismissed?
Yes, depending on the circumstances. A criminal defense attorney can challenge the evidence, suppress unlawfully obtained material, or negotiate with prosecutors for lesser charges or alternative sentencing options.
Do first-time offenders face jail time for Drug Trafficking?
Yes. Unlike possession charges, Drug Trafficking often includes mandatory minimum sentencing, even for first-time offenders. However, with proper legal representation, there may be alternatives to incarceration.
What if I didn’t know the drugs were there?
Lack of knowledge is a potential defense. Your attorney may be able to argue that you had no intent to traffic, which is a critical element of the charge.
Will I lose my job or professional license after a Drug Trafficking charge?
A conviction can have lasting professional consequences. Your defense attorney can help minimize the impact by working toward a resolution that protects your record and future.