Facing Possession with Intent to Distribute Charges? Our Massachusetts Defense Attorneys Are Here to Help
If you’ve been charged with Possession with Intent to distribute in Massachusetts, you may feel overwhelmed by the criminal process and unsure of what steps to take next. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we are a criminal defense law firm with offices in both Boston and Salem, ready to provide trusted, experienced, and aggressive criminal defense attorneys to represent you. Our team includes skilled defense attorneys and a former prosecutor who offers insight into how the government builds its case. Whether your charge involves illegal drugs, prescription medications, or other controlled substances, we take your case personally—and fight for your future with commitment and precision.
We are proud to serve clients across Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk counties, including individuals in Boston, Brighton, West Roxbury, Chelsea, Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, Saugus, Cambridge, Somerville, Newton, Brookline, and Dedham. If you’re facing drug crime charges like Possession with Intent to distribute, you deserve a Massachusetts defense attorney who will stand by you and ensure your rights are protected.
Understanding Possession with Intent to Distribute in Massachusetts
Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 94C, Possession with Intent to distribute is treated as a serious drug offense. According to Massachusetts law, it is illegal to knowingly or intentionally possess a controlled substance with the intent to distribute it to others.
The key difference between simple possession and possession with intent to distribute lies in the intent. Law enforcement may try to prove intent by pointing to:
- The quantity of the drugs found
- How the drugs were packaged
- The presence of cash or drug paraphernalia
- Any communications or surveillance evidence
The potential penalties for this charge vary depending on the type and amount of drug, prior convictions, and whether the alleged activity occurred in a school or park zone, which may carry enhanced penalties. For example, being charged under Chapter 94C, Section 32A for substances such as cocaine or methamphetamine can result in state prison time, even for a first offense.
Why You Need an Aggressive Criminal Defense Attorney
When your future, career, or reputation is on the line, you need a criminal defense attorney who doesn’t hesitate to challenge the prosecution’s case. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we investigate every detail and scrutinize how the evidence was collected. Were your rights violated during a search? Did the police have probable cause or a proper warrant? Was the alleged “intent” supported by actual evidence or assumptions?
These are just a few of the questions our defense attorneys consider when building a strong defense strategy. With our experience defending drug crime cases, including Possession with Intent to Distribute, we know how to navigate Massachusetts courtrooms, negotiate with prosecutors, and—when needed—stand firm at trial.
Defending Clients Across Massachusetts Courts
The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson represents individuals facing Possession with Intent to distribute and other drug crime charges throughout Eastern Massachusetts. Our law firm has offices in Boston and Salem, and we regularly appear in courts across several counties.
We serve clients in, but not limited to following areas:
- Suffolk County – including neighborhoods and cities such as Boston, Brighton, West Roxbury, and Chelsea
- Essex County – including Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, and Saugus
- Middlesex County – including Cambridge, Somerville, and Newton
- Norfolk County – including Quincy, Brookline, and Dedham
If your case is being handled in any of these counties or nearby cities, we’re ready to step in and protect your rights. Our team is familiar with the local courts, judges, and procedures in these jurisdictions, and we use that knowledge to your advantage.
What Makes our law firm Different
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, our approach is built on preparation, precision, and aggressive advocacy. We don’t treat clients like case numbers. Each client’s situation is unique, and so is our legal strategy. We bring:
- A team that includes a former prosecutor with insider knowledge
- Direct communication and a client-focused approach
- Deep knowledge of Massachusetts drug crime laws
- A commitment to aggressive courtroom representation
When you work with us, we’ll work hard to reduce the charges, suppress unlawful evidence, or fight for an acquittal when the case calls for it.
Take the First Step in Protecting Your Rights
When you are facing a serious drug crime charge like Possession with Intent to distribute, you can’t afford to delay. The prosecution is already building its case. You deserve a legal team that’s just as determined.
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we bring clarity to a complex process. We will help you understand your rights, evaluate your options, and plan the most effective defense strategy possible. We fight hard because your future matters. Contact us now to set up a confidential strategy session and take control of your case today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for Possession with Intent to Distribute in Massachusetts?
Penalties vary based on the type of drug and prior convictions. For example, under M.G.L. Chapter 94C Section 32A, possessing cocaine with the intent to distribute can lead to 2.5 to 10 years in state prison. School zone enhancements can add mandatory jail time.
Can I be charged with intent to distribute if the drugs were just for personal use?
Yes. Even if the drugs were for personal use, the police may still charge you with intent to distribute if they find scales, small bags, or large quantities. An experienced criminal defense attorney can challenge these assumptions.
What should I do if I’ve been charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute?
Remain silent and avoid speaking to police without an attorney. Then contact an aggressive criminal defense attorney who has experience handling drug crime cases in Massachusetts.
Can charges be reduced or dismissed?
Indeed. We might be able to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence, get the charges dropped, or even have the case dismissed based on the evidence.