Charged with Failure to Stop for Police in Massachusetts? Our Defense Attorneys Are Prepared to Protect Your Rights
If you’ve been charged with Failure to Stop for Police in Massachusetts, it’s essential to take the charge seriously. This offense can carry serious penalties, and it can impact your driving record, license status, employment opportunities, and even your freedom. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we understand the stress and uncertainty that come with criminal charges. With offices in Boston and Salem, our criminal defense law firm provides clients with personalized legal strategies, aggressive courtroom representation, and the advantage of a former prosecutor on our team.
Whether you’re facing charges in Suffolk County—including Boston, Brighton, Chelsea, or West Roxbury—or in Essex County areas like Salem, Peabody, Lynn, Swampscott, or Saugus, we are here to help. Our team also represents individuals in Middlesex County (Cambridge, Somerville, Newton) and Norfolk County (Brookline, Dedham). If you’re facing a motor vehicle offense like Failure to Stop for Police, don’t wait—contact us now to set up a strategy session and understand your legal options.
Understanding the Charge: What Is "Failure to Stop for Police" in Massachusetts?
Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 90, Section 25, a person who willfully refuses or neglects to stop when signaled by a police officer is committing a criminal offense. This law applies to both vehicle drivers and pedestrians and is typically charged as a misdemeanor, though it can escalate depending on other factors such as reckless driving or endangerment.
If you’re charged, you may be accused of ignoring a police officer’s signal or continuing to drive away despite lights, sirens, or hand signals. The law is strict, and officers have broad discretion in identifying this offense. That’s why it’s crucial to work with a Massachusetts defense attorney who understands how to challenge the evidence and procedure in these cases.
What Are the Penalties for Failure to Stop for Police in Massachusetts?
Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 90, Section 25, failing to stop for a police officer when signaled is a criminal offense. While this charge is typically treated as a misdemeanor, the consequences can still be significant and may impact your driving privileges and criminal record.
If convicted, the potential penalties include:
- A fine of up to $100
- Possible arrest depending on the circumstances
- A criminal record, which can affect future employment and background checks
- License suspension or other administrative actions by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV)
The severity of penalties may increase if the incident involved additional factors, such as high-speed driving, reckless operation, or putting others at risk. It’s also common for this charge to be accompanied by other motor vehicle violations, which can complicate your case.
Even if you believe the failure to stop was unintentional, the legal system treats this charge seriously. Working with an experienced Massachusetts defense attorney gives you the best opportunity to protect your record, license, and freedom.
Why Choose the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson?
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, our team of aggressive criminal defense attorneys takes every case seriously. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all legal strategies. Every client receives a customized defense plan that aligns with their specific case, history, and legal goals.
What sets our law firm apart?
- We have offices in Boston and Salem, making it convenient for clients across Eastern Massachusetts.
- Our team includes a former prosecutor, providing valuable insight into how the state may build its case.
- We are well-known for aggressive courtroom representation, clear communication, and personal commitment to each client.
- We are a trusted Massachusetts criminal defense law firm, not just because of our courtroom skill but also due to our respectful and client-focused approach.
Defending Against Failure to Stop Charges: What Can a Defense Attorney Do?
Being charged with Failure to Stop for Police doesn’t automatically mean a conviction. A skilled criminal defense attorney will carefully examine every detail of your case to determine the best course of action. That starts by questioning how the stop occurred and whether law enforcement followed proper procedures.
Some of the key ways a defense attorney can help include:
- Reviewing whether the officer clearly and lawfully signaled for you to stop
- Evaluating whether there was any confusion or lack of visibility that could explain your actions
- Investigating whether you were misidentified or if another vehicle may have been involved
- Identifying procedural errors or violations of your rights during the traffic stop or arrest
- Negotiating with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges when appropriate, especially if you have a clean record or other mitigating factors
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we approach every case with attention to detail and a deep understanding of how motor vehicle offenses are handled in Massachusetts courts. Our goal is to minimize the impact of the charge on your life and help you move forward with confidence.
Who We Represent
We represent people in a wide area of Massachusetts who are accused of motor vehicle offences. Some of the most common locations where our clients face Failure to Stop for Police charges include, but are not limited to following areas:
- Boston, Brighton, Chelsea, West Roxbury (Suffolk County)
- Salem, Lynn, Peabody, Swampscott, Saugus (Essex County)
- Cambridge, Somerville, Newton (Middlesex County)
- Brookline, Dedham, Quincy (Norfolk County)
If you’re located in or around any of these cities or towns, our criminal defense law firm is ready to act quickly on your behalf.
Contact Us to Set Up a Strategy Session
If you’ve been charged with Failure to Stop for Police in Massachusetts, don’t leave your future to chance. These cases require knowledgeable, experienced, and focused legal representation. The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson is ready to help you build a strong defense.
Our team is equipped to handle cases across Eastern Massachusetts and will fight to minimize the impact on your record, license, and life. Contact us now to set up a strategy session and take the first step toward protecting your rights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Failure to Stop for Police a misdemeanor in Massachusetts?
Yes, under M.G.L. c. 90 § 25, it is typically charged as a misdemeanor. However, other charges may be added depending on the circumstances.
Can I lose my license for not stopping for police in Massachusetts?
Yes. The Massachusetts RMV can suspend your license, especially if the offense involved reckless driving or endangering others.
What should I do if I’m charged with Failure to Stop for Police?
You should avoid speaking to the police without an attorney and contact a Massachusetts defense attorney immediately to discuss your rights and defense options.
What if I didn’t see the police trying to stop me?
This can be a valid defense. A criminal defense attorney can evaluate whether the signal to stop was clear and whether your failure to stop was intentional.
Does the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson handle cases outside of Boston?
Yes, our criminal defense law firm handles cases throughout Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk Counties. We have offices in Boston and Salem to serve you better.