Accused of Fraud in Massachusetts? Our Defense Attorney Is Ready to Fight for You
If you’ve been charged with fraud or white-collar crime in Massachusetts, the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson is prepared to help. With offices conveniently located in Boston and Salem, our criminal defense law firm is dedicated to defending individuals facing fraud-related charges 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 offer strategic legal defense grounded in experience, insight, and aggressive courtroom advocacy.
Fraud charges in Massachusetts are complex and often involve lengthy investigations and detailed financial records. These charges may include identity theft, insurance fraud, credit card fraud, unemployment fraud, and other allegations related to deception for personal or financial gain. Our criminal defense law firm includes a former prosecutor who understands how the other side builds their case—giving our clients a strategic advantage.
Understanding Fraud Charges in Massachusetts
Fraud in Massachusetts encompasses a wide range of criminal offenses, generally defined as intentionally deceiving someone to obtain money, property, or a personal benefit. These crimes are taken seriously by prosecutors and law enforcement, especially in white-collar investigations involving government programs or financial institutions.
Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 266, several fraud-related offenses can carry felony penalties. For example:
- Credit card fraud is prohibited under M.G.L. c. 266, § 37C, where using a stolen or fraudulent credit card can lead to imprisonment or significant fines.
- Unemployment fraud, a growing concern in recent years, involves knowingly submitting false information to the Department of Unemployment Assistance. This falls under M.G.L. c. 151A, and penalties can include restitution and criminal prosecution.
- Identity fraud, addressed in M.G.L. c. 266, § 37E, makes it illegal to pose as another individual to obtain services, goods, or access, and it can result in up to 2.5 years in jail or state prison depending on the case.
These are just a few examples. Fraud cases can involve both state and federal laws, depending on the circumstances. Having a knowledgeable Boston criminal defense attorney can make the difference between a conviction and a dismissed case or reduced charges.
Why You Need an Aggressive Criminal Defense Attorney
Fraud charges are not just about what happened—they’re about what can be proved. Many fraud investigations involve document-heavy evidence, wire transfers, emails, or witness statements that prosecutors must piece together to form a convincing narrative. As an accused individual, you need someone who understands how to analyze that evidence and challenge it effectively.
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we use our deep experience with fraud and white-collar cases to develop smart, strategic defenses. That may involve:
- Challenging the intent element (Was there actual intent to defraud?)
- Questioning the reliability of the evidence
- Identifying weaknesses in the government’s investigation
- Seeking alternative resolutions, including diversion or pre-trial outcomes
Our approach is aggressive but realistic. We know when to negotiate and when to push back—especially in a courtroom setting. Whether you’re facing allegations in Boston, Salem, or nearby towns such as Newton, Brookline, Dedham, or Quincy, we take your case personally and fight for your rights at every step.
Serving Clients Across Suffolk, Essex, and Middlesex Counties
Our criminal defense law firm has extensive experience in courts throughout, 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
Each courthouse has its own procedures, judges, and prosecutorial strategies. Our law firm is familiar with these environments and brings local insight to your defense. We focus on clear communication, thorough preparation, and developing a defense strategy that is tailored to the unique facts of your case.
Types of Fraud Cases We Defend
Our criminal defense law firm represents clients accused of a broad range of fraud-related offenses. These cases often involve complex financial transactions, government agencies, or private institutions—and each requires a careful, strategic approach. Whether the allegations involve personal gain, false information, or misuse of financial systems, we are equipped to challenge the charges and protect your rights.
We regularly handle fraud cases, including but not limited to:
- Identity Theft – Allegations involving the use of someone else’s personal information to obtain goods, services, or financial benefits.
- Insurance Fraud – Charges stemming from allegedly false claims or misrepresentations to insurance companies.
- Credit Card Fraud – Accusations of using or possessing stolen, cloned, or unauthorized credit cards.
- Wire Fraud – Federal or state charges based on using electronic communications to commit fraud.
- Mortgage Fraud – Involving misleading information on real estate documents or loan applications.
- Public Assistance Fraud – Accusations of misusing programs like SNAP, welfare, or unemployment benefits.
- Unemployment Fraud – Claims of submitting false details to the Massachusetts Department of Unemployment Assistance.
- Check Fraud – Includes forging checks, writing bad checks, or altering financial instruments.
- Healthcare Fraud – Involving false billing, improper claims, or misuse of medical benefits or services.
If you’ve been charged or believe you’re under investigation for any type of fraud, it’s essential to act quickly. We take the time to understand the details of your situation and develop a tailored defense that fits the specific facts of your case.
What to Expect If You're Charged
Fraud cases can start in many ways—sometimes after months of investigation, sometimes through a surprise summons or arrest. In either case, it’s important not to speak to law enforcement or investigators without a defense attorney.
Once charged, your case may proceed through the following steps:
- Arraignment – where the charges are formally read
- Pre-trial hearings – motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges may be filed
- Discovery – the exchange of documents and evidence
- Negotiation or trial – depending on the strength of the case and your goals
Having an aggressive criminal defense attorney by your side can protect your rights and ensure you don’t make missteps early on.
Contact an Experienced Massachusetts Defense Attorney Today
Fraud charges are serious. Whether you’re being investigated or already facing charges, the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson provides strategic and aggressive legal representation you can trust. With offices in Boston and Salem, we are accessible to clients across Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk Counties. Contact us now to set up a strategy session and begin building your defense. The earlier you act, the better your chances of achieving a favorable outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the punishment for fraud in Massachusetts?
Penalties vary depending on the type of fraud and the amount of financial loss. Some charges are misdemeanors, while others are felonies that can lead to state prison. For example, under M.G.L. c. 266, § 30, larceny by fraud over $1,200 is a felony.
Can fraud charges be dropped in Massachusetts?
Yes, charges may be dropped if the evidence is insufficient or if the defense can prove that there was no intent to defraud. Legal strategy plays a major role in achieving a dismissal.
What should I do if I’m being investigated for fraud but haven’t been charged?
Contact a defense attorney immediately. Early representation can help protect your rights and even prevent charges from being filed.
Is it still fraud if I didn’t make any money from the act?
Yes, intent to deceive is often enough for a charge. Whether or not you benefited financially doesn’t eliminate criminal liability under Massachusetts law.
Can I go to jail for unemployment fraud in Massachusetts?
Yes, unemployment fraud can lead to criminal charges and possible jail time. According to M.G.L. c. 151A, penalties can include fines, restitution, and incarceration.