Charged with Gross Lewdness? A Boston Defense Attorney from Our Team Is Ready to Stand Up for You
Being charged with Gross Lewdness in Massachusetts is a serious matter that can have lasting consequences. Whether the charge arises from a misunderstanding or a false accusation, you need a strong and experienced defense on your side. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we provide aggressive and skilled representation to individuals facing Gross Lewdness and other sexual offense charges. With offices in Boston and Salem, our criminal defense law firm is prepared to defend clients throughout Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, or Norfolk Counties.
Our team includes aggressive criminal defense attorneys and a former prosecutor who understands how the other side thinks. This insider perspective allows us to anticipate prosecutorial strategies and build a strong defense tailored to your unique case. Whether you’re in Boston, Brighton, West Roxbury, Chelsea, Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, Saugus, Cambridge, Somerville, Newton, Brookline, Dedham, or Quincy, we’re ready to take your case seriously and fight for your rights.
What Is Gross Lewdness Under Massachusetts Law?
Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 272, Section 53, Gross Lewdness is considered a criminal offense involving lewd, wanton, and lascivious conduct that is committed in a public place or with public exposure. This charge is often associated with public indecency, and depending on the circumstances, it can sometimes lead to registration as a sex offender if there are additional elements involved.
A conviction for Gross Lewdness can carry serious penalties, including:
- Fines
- Jail time
- Mandatory sex offender registration (in certain cases)
- Lasting damage to personal and professional reputation
The criminal justice system in Massachusetts does not treat sex-related charges lightly. Even if this is your first offense, it’s important to understand that the consequences can follow you long after your case is closed. This is why it’s critical to consult with a criminal defense attorney who understands how to challenge these charges effectively.
How We Approach Gross Lewdness Defense
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, our legal team takes every charge seriously—because we know how much is at stake. Our process begins by carefully reviewing the facts of your case, including witness statements, surveillance footage, police reports, and other evidence.
We will ask:
- Was the conduct truly “lewd” under the legal definition?
- Was there an intent to offend, or was the act misunderstood?
- Were your constitutional rights violated during the arrest or investigation?
- Was the incident truly public, or was there an expectation of privacy?
Our defense strategies are built on factual analysis, deep knowledge of Massachusetts law, and years of experience in criminal courts. As Massachusetts defense attorneys, we are not only familiar with the laws but also with the court systems and how different prosecutors and judges operate across Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk counties.
Areas We Serve
We regularly represent clients in a wide range of local courts and are familiar with the procedures, prosecutors, and judges in each jurisdiction. Our attorneys are committed to providing dedicated defense representation no matter where your case is being heard.
We proudly defend clients in the following communities, but not limited to:
- Suffolk County – Boston, Brighton, Chelsea, West Roxbury
- Essex County – Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, Saugus
- Middlesex County – Cambridge, Somerville, Newton
- Norfolk County – Brookline, Dedham, Quincy
If you’ve been charged in any of these areas, the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson is ready to defend your rights with a personalized, aggressive approach.
Why Choose the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson?
How your case turns out can be greatly impacted by your choice of attorney. We approach every case we take on at the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson with a client-focused mindset, legal knowledge, and real-world experience. Our law firm is built on a deep understanding of Massachusetts criminal law and a commitment to protecting your rights.
Here’s what sets our law firm apart:
- Informed Legal Perspective – Our team includes a former prosecutor, giving us firsthand knowledge of how cases are built and how the other side operates.
- Focused on Results – We take a strategic approach to every case, looking for weaknesses in the prosecution’s arguments and identifying every available legal defense.
- Direct Attorney Access – Rather than only dealing with office personnel, you deal directly with an experienced attorney. We keep you updated and involved at every stage.
- Reputation for Courtroom Advocacy – We are known for strong representation in court, thorough case preparation, and clear communication with judges and prosecutors.
- Local Experience – With offices in Boston and Salem, we routinely handle cases in district and superior courts across Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk Counties.
- Respect for Every Client – We understand that facing a charge like Gross Lewdness is stressful and personal. Our team treats every client with the respect and attention they deserve.
Our role isn’t just to defend you legally-it’s to help you understand your situation, weigh your options, and move forward with clarity. If you’ve been charged, now is the time to take action.
Protect Your Rights and Your Reputation
Gross Lewdness charges are more than embarrassing—they can permanently damage your record, your relationships, and your ability to find work or housing. This charge is not something you must handle alone. With the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, you get a team of dedicated legal professionals who take your defense seriously.
We understand what’s at stake, and we’ll work with you to pursue the best possible outcome—whether that means a dismissal, reduced charges, or a strong defense at trial. Every client deserves to be heard, and every case deserves a strategic and honest approach.
Contact us now to set up a strategy session and learn how our Boston criminal defense attorneys can help you fight a Gross Lewdness charge.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered Gross Lewdness in Massachusetts?
Gross Lewdness typically involves lewd, indecent, or lascivious behavior committed in a public setting. The courts look at both the conduct itself and the surrounding circumstances to determine if the legal definition is met.
Can a Gross Lewdness charge result in sex offender registration?
In some cases, if the charge is tied to other offenses or aggravating factors, it could lead to mandatory sex offender registration. Each case is different, so it’s important to discuss your case with a qualified criminal defense attorney.
What defenses are available for a Gross Lewdness charge?
Defenses can include lack of intent, mistaken identity, improper police procedure, or that the conduct did not meet the legal standard of lewdness. Your Massachusetts defense attorney will evaluate the facts to determine the best course of action.
Do I need a attorney even if it's a first offense?
Yes. Even a first-time charge can have serious consequences, including a criminal record. Hiring an aggressive criminal defense attorney early can help protect your future.
Where will my case be handled if I was charged in a city like Salem or Cambridge?
Your case will likely be handled in the district court that serves the city or town where the incident occurred. We regularly appear in courts throughout Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk counties.