Accused of Disturbing the Peace? A Massachusetts Defense Attorney Is on Your Side
If you’ve been charged with Disturbing the Peace in Massachusetts, your next steps matter—and choosing the right criminal defense law firm can make all the difference. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we bring an aggressive, strategic defense for individuals facing public order offenses. With offices in both Boston and Salem, we are well-positioned to represent individuals throughout Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk Counties.
Disturbing the Peace might sound like a minor charge, but it can carry lasting consequences—especially if it leads to a criminal record. Whether the charge stems from a heated argument, public noise complaint, or an interaction with law enforcement, our criminal defense attorneys are prepared to advocate on your behalf. With a team that includes a former prosecutor, we know how these cases are built—and how to challenge them in court. We understand that every case is unique, and we take a personalized approach to defending your rights.
What Is Considered Disturbing the Peace in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, Disturbing the Peace is governed by Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 272, Section 53. The statute prohibits behavior that is considered disruptive, disorderly, or offensive in public settings. According to the law, individuals may be charged if they engage in “offensive and disorderly acts” that disturb others, especially in public spaces like streets, parks, or other shared areas.
Some common examples include:
- Yelling or fighting in public
- Using offensive language to provoke others
- Unreasonably loud noise, especially at night
- Creating a public disturbance during protests or demonstrations
- Interfering with emergency personnel or law enforcement
What Are the Penalties for Disturbing the Peace?
In Massachusetts, a Disturbing the Peace charge is classified as a misdemeanor offense. For a first-time offense, the penalty is typically a fine of up to $150. However, if you’ve been convicted of a similar offense before, the consequences can become more serious. A repeat offense may result in up to 6 months in jail, a fine of up to $200, or in some cases, both.
While these penalties might not seem severe at first glance, even a minor conviction can lead to long-term issues. A criminal record can impact your employment, professional licensing, housing opportunities, and immigration status. That’s why it’s important to take any public order charge seriously and speak with a qualified criminal defense attorney who understands how Massachusetts courts handle these cases.
Areas We Serve for Disturbing the Peace Charges
Our criminal defense law firm represents individuals across a wide range of cities and towns in Massachusetts who are facing Disturbing the Peace and other public order offenses. Whether you live in the area or were visiting when the incident occurred, we are prepared to stand by your side in court.
We regularly handle cases in:
- Suffolk County – Boston, Brighton, Chelsea, West Roxbury
- Essex County – Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, Saugus
- Middlesex County – Cambridge, Somerville, Newton
- Norfolk County – Brookline, Dedham, Quincy
Whether you’re a student, working professional, or visitor charged with a public order offense, our aggressive criminal defense attorneys are here to advocate for you.
How We Approach Disturbing the Peace Charges
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we know how prosecutors approach these cases—because we’ve been on that side of the courtroom. That insider perspective allows us to develop legal strategies that challenge the evidence against you and work toward reducing or dismissing the charges when possible.
Your case may involve questions like:
- Was your behavior actually disruptive under the law?
- Were your constitutional rights violated during your arrest?
- Can witnesses support your version of events?
- Was there selective enforcement or retaliation by law enforcement?
Our goal is always to build a solid defense based on the facts—and to make sure your side of the story is heard in court.
Public Order Offense Charges Need Serious Legal Attention
Although Disturbing the Peace is considered a misdemeanor, it still qualifies as a public order offense—a legal category that can impact your record, reputation, and future. These cases are often subjective, and the prosecution must prove that your conduct met the legal standard for disorderly or offensive behavior.
Our role as your criminal defense attorney is to:
- Investigate the incident thoroughly
- Evaluate the legality of the arrest or citation
- In the event that your rights were infringed, file motions to suppress evidence.
- Represent you in court with clarity, focus, and strategy
With deep experience handling criminal cases in Massachusetts courts, we fight not only for your legal rights—but for your peace of mind.
Contact Us Now to Set Up a Strategy Session
If you’ve been charged with Disturbing the Peace in Boston, Salem, or surrounding areas, don’t wait to get help. The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson delivers knowledgeable, aggressive representation rooted in years of courtroom experience. We understand what’s at stake, and we’re ready to guide you through every step of your case. Call us today or send us a message to schedule your legal strategy session. Whether you’re in Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, or Norfolk Counties, our team is prepared to stand up for your rights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Disturbing the Peace a criminal charge in Massachusetts?
Yes, it is a misdemeanor offense under Massachusetts law. A conviction can appear on your criminal record and may carry jail time for repeat offenses.
Can I be arrested for Disturbing the Peace, or will I just get a citation?
Depending on the circumstances, you can either be cited or arrested. Factors such as previous offenses, the nature of the disturbance, or interaction with police may influence the outcome.
Can a Disturbing the Peace charge be dismissed?
Yes, a charge can be dismissed in certain situations—especially if evidence is weak, your rights were violated, or diversionary programs are available. An experienced defense attorney can assess your case and recommend the best approach.
Does a conviction affect my job or housing prospects?
It can. A misdemeanor on your record may be discovered in background checks and can affect employment, rental applications, and more. That’s why legal representation is critical.
What should I do immediately after being charged?
You should avoid making statements to law enforcement and contact a Massachusetts defense attorney as soon as possible. Timely legal guidance helps protect your rights and strengthen your defense.