Boston Office

Salem Office

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Boston Office

   55 Union Street, Suite 400 Boston, MA 02108
   617-295-7500

Salem Office

   15 Church St, Suite 105 Salem, MA 01970

   978-607-0034

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Accused of Murder? Contact us NOW!

What is Murder?

Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 265, Section 1, murder is defined as the unlawful killing of a human being with malice aforethought. The law categorizes murder into two degrees:

  • First-Degree Murder: This includes killings that are:
    • Deliberately premeditated,
    • Committed with extreme atrocity or cruelty, or
    • Occur during the commission or attempted commission of a felony punishable by death or life imprisonment.
  • Second-Degree Murder: All other murders that do not meet the criteria for first-degree fall into this category.

What Are The Elements of Murder?

To secure a murder conviction, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt:

  • Causation: The defendant’s actions caused the victim’s death.
  • Intent: The defendant intended to kill, cause grievous bodily harm, or engaged in conduct that a reasonable person would know creates a strong likelihood of death.
  • Malice Aforethought: A deliberate intention to unlawfully take a life.


These elements are further detailed in the Model Jury Instructions on Homicide provided by the Massachusetts judiciary.

What if the Accused is a Minor?

Massachusetts law treats juveniles differently based on age and the nature of the offense:


Additionally, juveniles convicted of murder are held in separate facilities from adult inmates until they reach the age of 18, as stipulated in General Laws Chapter 119, Section 72B.

What Are The Penalties Associated With This Crime?

  • First-Degree Murder:
    • Adults: Life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.
    • Juveniles (14-17 years old): Life imprisonment with eligibility for parole after a term set by the court.

  • Second-Degree Murder:
    • Life imprisonment with eligibility for parole after a term set by the court.


These penalties are outlined in General Laws Chapter 265, Section 2.

Why Choose Us As Your Defense Attorney?

With years of specialized experience, The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson has established itself as the go-to Boston criminal defense attorney in Massachusetts.

  1. Relentless Advocacy: With experience, fidelity, and a focus on results, we give criminal defense that prioritizes your rights, so you feel supported and confident every step of the way.
  2. Proven Track Record: With a strong focus on criminal defense, we not only bring moments of experience but also constantly achieve successful outcomes, making us a trusted choice for our clients.
  3. Affordable and Accessible: Our criminal defense firm combines quality representation with straightforward pricing, so you can get expert legal help without the heavy cost.
  4. Understandable Explanations: We give clear, straightforward criminal defense guidance so you can confidently navigate your legal situation and understand each step along the way.

Experienced Criminal Lawyers Ready to Fight for You

Boston Office
55 Union Street, Suite 400 Boston, MA 02108
617-295-7500

Salem Office
15 Church St, Suite 105 Salem, MA 01970
978-607-0034

Office Hours
Mondays – Fridays
24/7 Support

Saturdays – Sundays
10:00am – 2:00pm

Our Legal Process and How We Work

1.
Initial Consultation

We give our clients a comprehensive overview of their legal issues, gathering essential information to understand their unique situation.

2.
Strategic Plan Development

After the initial discussion, we create a tailored strategic plan outlining how we aim to achieve the customer’s objectives.

3.
Representation and Advocacy

Once the agreement is in place, we begin representing you, furnishing expert legal guidance and devoted advocacy throughout your case.

1.
Initial Consultation

We give our clients a comprehensive overview of their legal issues, gathering essential information to understand their unique situation.

2.
Strategic Plan Development

After the initial discussion, we create a tailored strategic plan outlining how we aim to achieve the customer’s objectives.

3.
Representation and Advocacy

Once the agreement is in place, we begin representing you, furnishing expert legal guidance and devoted advocacy throughout your case.

Act Now Before It's Too Late

Facing a murder charge in Massachusetts is a grave matter with life-altering consequences. The legal system is complex, and the stakes are incredibly high. Delaying action can severely impact the outcome of your case. It’s imperative to secure experienced legal representation immediately to navigate the intricacies of the law and mount a robust defense. Your future depends on swift and decisive action.

FAQs

Following legal reforms, juveniles cannot be sentenced to life without the possibility of parole. They are eligible for parole after serving a term set by the court.

First-degree murder involves premeditation, extreme atrocity, or occurs during certain felonies. Second-degree murder lacks these specific circumstances.

Yes. Defenses may include self-defense, lack of intent, or challenging the prosecution’s evidence. Each case is unique and requires a tailored legal strategy.

This statute allows juveniles aged 14 to 17 charged with serious offenses, like murder, to be tried as adults, subjecting them to adult penalties.

Immediately. Early legal intervention is crucial to protect your rights and build a strong defense.

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Charged with Murder? Immediate Legal Action is Essential!

Contact Us Now!

Experienced Criminal Lawyers Ready to Fight for You

Boston Office
55 Union Street, Suite 400 Boston, MA 02108
617-295-7500

Salem Office
15 Church St, Suite 105 Salem, MA 01970
978-607-0034

Office Hours
Mondays – Fridays
24/7 Support

Saturdays – Sundays
10:00am – 2:00pm

Our Latest Victory Cases You Need to KNOW!

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The Right Strategy to Win Your Criminal Case

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Disclaimer: Although I am an attorney, I am not your attorney.  Please do not rely on anything on our website as legal advice because any specific advice would depend on your situation.  Any results posted on this page are not guarantees of outcomes in your case.

Our Locations

Boston Office

(Cheap parking! We validate parking at 136 Blackstone St, Boston, MA 02109 (Haymarket, Parcel 7 parking garage), $3 for three hours.)

Salem Office

Quick Links

Practice Areas

Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson Header Blue Logo

The Right Strategy to Win Your Criminal Case

Facebook Instagram Linkedin Tiktok Youtube

Disclaimer: Although I am an attorney, I am not your attorney.  Please do not rely on anything on our website as legal advice because any specific advice would depend on your situation.  Any results posted on this page are not guarantees of outcomes in your case.

Our Locations

Boston Office

(Cheap parking! We validate parking at 136 Blackstone St, Boston, MA 02108 (Haymarket, Parcel 7 parking garage), $3 for three hours.)

Salem Office

Quick Links

Practice Areas

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