Charged as a Sexually Dangerous Person in Massachusetts? Our Boston Defense Attorney Is Prepared to Protect Your Rights
If you have been charged as a Sexually Dangerous Person in Massachusetts, the consequences can be life-altering. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we understand the high stakes involved in these cases. With offices in Boston and Salem, our criminal defense law firm is positioned to serve individuals across Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, or Norfolk Counties. Whether you’re in Boston, Brighton, West Roxbury, Chelsea, Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, Saugus, Cambridge, Somerville, Newton, Brookline, Dedham, or Quincy, we are here to defend your legal rights with precision and dedication.
Experienced Legal Defense for Sexually Dangerous Person Allegations
Facing an allegation that you are a Sexually Dangerous Person under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 123A is unlike most criminal charges. This civil commitment process does not rely on a new criminal conviction. Instead, it focuses on whether the Commonwealth believes you pose a continued risk of sexual offense. These proceedings can result in indefinite confinement, even after serving a full sentence.
According to Massachusetts law, individuals may be deemed sexually dangerous based on past criminal history and a clinical evaluation. The process includes a petition filed by the Commonwealth, followed by a probable cause hearing and, if necessary, a trial by jury.
This is not a charge to face alone. You need an aggressive criminal defense attorney who knows the legal system and can challenge evidence, cross-examine government experts, and provide a strong defense. The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson can help. Having a former prosecutor on our staff allows us to gain important insight into how the Commonwealth constructs and presents these cases.
Understanding Sexually Dangerous Person Proceedings
Being labeled a Sexually Dangerous Person (SDP) can lead to civil commitment at the Massachusetts Treatment Center in Bridgewater. This designation can apply to someone who:
- Has been convicted of a sexual offense, as defined in M.G.L. c. 123A, § 1.
- Suffers from a mental abnormality or personality disorder.
- has the potential to commit sexual assault in the future.
This is not the same as a criminal conviction, but it is just as serious. A judge may send you for a 60-day evaluation if they find probable cause that you might be a sexually hazardous individual. Two qualified examiners will assess your risk level, and their reports can be used as evidence during the trial. If found to be a sexually dangerous person, you could be committed for one day to life, subject to periodic reviews.
Your Legal Rights Matter
Although Sexually Dangerous Person proceedings are considered civil, they carry serious consequences and should be treated with the same urgency as any criminal charge. You still have important legal rights that must be protected throughout the process.
You are entitled to:
- Legal representation from a Boston defense attorney
- Challenge the Commonwealth’s petition in court
- Present your own evidence and call witnesses
- Cross-examine the state’s experts and other witnesses
- Request a trial by jury
Too often, individuals involved in these proceedings don’t realize how much is at stake — including the possibility of indefinite confinement. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we take these cases seriously. Our team works closely with you to build a strong defense, examine every detail, and hold the Commonwealth to its burden of proof. We’re committed to protecting your future and ensuring your rights are fully defended at every stage.
We Serve Communities Across Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk Counties
Our criminal defense law firm proudly serves individuals throughout eastern Massachusetts. We represent those charged with sex crimes or SDP allegations in, but not limited to following areas:
- Suffolk County – Boston, Brighton, Chelsea, West Roxbury
- Essex County – Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, Saugus
- Middlesex County – Cambridge, Somerville, Newton
- Norfolk County – Brookline, Dedham, Quincy
You don’t need to go through this alone. Whether you’ve already received notice of a probable cause hearing or you’re concerned about a potential petition, we are ready to listen and help.
What Sets Us Apart in SDP Defense
Choosing the right attorney in a Sexually Dangerous Person case can make a critical difference. Our Boston defense attorneys understand the nuances of this law and have represented clients at every stage — from probable cause hearings to trial and appeals.
Here’s what you can expect when you work with us:
- A legal team including a former prosecutor, who understands how the state builds SDP cases.
- Direct and honest communication about your legal options.
- Meticulous preparation for evaluations and hearings.
- Respect for your dignity and a commitment to protect your rights.
We don’t rely on scare tactics or empty promises. We focus on facts, strategy, and advocacy.
Ready to Talk? Let’s Build a Defense Strategy Today
If you’re facing allegations as a Sexually Dangerous Person, contact the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson today to set up a confidential strategy session. Our Boston criminal defense attorneys understand what’s at risk — your freedom, your reputation, and your future. With offices in Boston and Salem, we are here to fight for your rights across Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, or Norfolk Counties.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Sexually Dangerous Person in Massachusetts?
A Sexually Dangerous Person is someone the Commonwealth believes has a mental abnormality and is likely to commit sexual offenses in the future, according to M.G.L. Chapter 123A.
Can I be committed as a Sexually Dangerous Person without a new charge?
Yes. You can be committed even if you’ve completed a prior sentence. The state may petition for civil commitment based on past convictions and current evaluations.
Do I need a attorney for SDP proceedings?
Yes. These cases are complex and carry serious consequences. A Boston criminal defense attorney can help challenge the petition and defend your rights.
How long can I be committed if found to be a Sexually Dangerous Person?
If found SDP, you may be committed for an indeterminate period, potentially life, subject to periodic reviews.
Where do SDP trials take place in Massachusetts?
Typically, these trials are held in the Superior Court of the county where the petition was filed, often in jurisdictions like Boston or surrounding areas.