Facing a Robbery Charge? Our Massachusetts Defense Attorney Is Prepared to Defend Your Rights
If you’ve been charged with robbery in Massachusetts, the stakes could not be higher—your freedom, future, and reputation are all on the line. Robbery is considered a serious violent felony, and convictions can result in lengthy prison sentences, steep fines, and a permanent criminal record. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we know how aggressively these cases are prosecuted.
With offices in Boston and Salem, our criminal defense law firm represents clients throughout Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk Counties. Our team includes experienced defense attorneys and a former prosecutor who understands how cases like this are built from the inside. Whether your arrest took place in Boston, Brighton, West Roxbury, Chelsea, Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, Saugus, Cambridge, Somerville, Newton, Brookline, Dedham, or Quincy, or any nearby city or town, we are prepared to fight for your rights and protect your future.
Robbery Charges in Massachusetts: What You Need to Know
Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 265, Section 19, it is defined as taking property directly from another person by using force, violence, or intimidation. Unlike theft or larceny, it involves direct confrontation with the alleged victim, which makes the penalties much more severe.
There are several forms under Massachusetts law:
- Unarmed Robbery – Taking property by force or intimidation without the use of a weapon.
- Armed Robbery – Using a weapon, or even claiming to have one, while committing a robbery.
- Masked or Armed Robbery with a Firearm – Considered one of the most serious charges, carrying mandatory minimum state prison sentences.
Penalties vary depending on the circumstances:
- Unarmed robbery is punishable by up to life in state prison.
- Armed robbery carries a minimum sentence of five years in state prison.
- Armed robbery with a firearm may result in even harsher mandatory minimum sentences.
Because robbery is treated as both a property and a violent crime, convictions can have devastating long-term impacts on employment, education, housing, and immigration status. That is why having a skilled Massachusetts robbery defense attorney is absolutely critical.
How Our Criminal Defense Law Firm Can Help
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, our mission is to reduce or eliminate the penalties you are facing. Every robbery case is taken seriously, and our team carefully reviews the evidence, police reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage to uncover weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. With prosecutorial experience on our side, we know how these cases are investigated and presented in court—and we use that knowledge to anticipate strategies and build the strongest defense possible.
We represent clients accused of robbery across Massachusetts, including:
- Suffolk County – Boston, Brighton, Chelsea, West Roxbury
- Essex County – Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, Saugus
- Middlesex County – Cambridge, Somerville, Newton
- Norfolk County – Brookline, Dedham, Quincy
Our deep understanding of the local courts and prosecutors allows us to deliver focused, efficient representation that puts your defense first.
Our Defense Strategies
Every case is unique, but common defenses may include showing that there was no intent to use force or intimidation, proving that you were misidentified as the suspect, or demonstrating that the alleged victim’s account is unreliable. In some cases, the prosecution’s evidence may be challenged due to improper police procedures or constitutional violations during your arrest. Our defense team carefully examines every detail, from the moment of investigation through trial, to protect your rights and develop a strong defense strategy.
Why Choose the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson?
When facing a charge as serious as robbery, the attorney you choose can make the difference between prison time and a second chance. Our criminal defense law firm is widely recognized in Massachusetts for aggressive legal defense, strategic case planning, and client-centered advocacy. We don’t simply handle cases—we fight for our clients’ futures. We will communicate clearly with you about your legal options, represent you assertively in negotiations and trial, and work tirelessly to minimize or dismiss the charges against you. Our team understands what’s at stake, and we are committed to standing by your side every step of the way.
Contact Us to Set Up a Strategy Session Today
If you or someone you know has been charged with robbery in Massachusetts, don’t wait to secure experienced legal help. The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson provides aggressive, personalized representation tailored to protect your rights and future. Whether you’re in Boston, Salem, or any nearby community, our team is ready to stand with you in court. Contact us now to set up a strategy session and discuss your next steps with a knowledgeable Massachusetts defense attorney.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is robbery considered a felony in Massachusetts?
Yes. It is always treated as a felony under Massachusetts law, with penalties ranging from several years to life in prison, depending on the circumstances.
What is the difference between robbery and larceny?
Larceny involves stealing property without directly confronting the victim, while robbery requires the use of force, threats, or intimidation.
Can robbery charges be reduced or dismissed?
Yes. Charges may be reduced if the prosecution’s evidence is weak, if mistaken identity is proven, or if procedural errors occurred. An experienced attorney can explore these options.
What are the penalties for armed robbery in Massachusetts?
Armed robbery carries a mandatory minimum of five years in state prison, and penalties increase if a firearm or mask was used.
How can a Massachusetts defense attorney help with robbery charges?
A defense attorney can challenge the evidence, cross-examine witnesses, negotiate with prosecutors, and build a strong defense to reduce or dismiss the charges against you.