What Should I Do if I’m Charged with Violating a Restraining Order?
If you are charged with violating a restraining order, there are defenses that can be argued in court, but hiring a defense attorney is crucial to the success of your case. In most cases, the evidence that someone has violated the terms of a restraining order comes from the testimony of the alleged victim, and […]
What Is Improper Storage of a Firearm in Massachusetts?
The laws surrounding the crime of improper storage of a firearm are designed to prevent gun access to children and others who should not be handling a firearm, as well as the loss and theft of a firearms. This charge can apply even if you have a license to carry a gun. If you or […]
Attorney Matthew W. Peterson Selected as a 2022 Super Lawyers Rising Star
I am thrilled to announce that I have been selected as a Super Lawyers Rising Star for the year 2022! Super Lawyers selects attorneys for this honor using a patented, multiphase selection process involving nominations, independent research on the nominated attorney, and peer evaluation. Verdicts, pro bono and community service, and experience, are just a […]
What is Armed Career Criminal Act (ACCA) in Massachusetts?
In 1998, the Massachusetts State Legislature enacted the Armed Career Criminal Act (ACCA). Under this statute, a person who possesses a firearm who has previously been convicted of a “violent crime” or “a serious drug offense” will receive additional prison time. The firearm offenses that trigger the ACCA apply to possession of firearm without a […]
What is the BRAVE Act in Massachusetts?
The Massachusetts BRAVE Act is an Act Relative to Veterans Benefits, Rights, Appreciation, Validation and Enforcement. Under this Act, it allows veterans who have been honorably discharged and diagnosed with a condition as a result of their service, to avoid being prosecuted if they have been charged with certain crimes A veteran must have a […]
What is Witness Intimidation in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, witness intimidation is when someone intentionally tries to influence a witness in order to interfere with a criminal investigation, criminal trial, or other criminal proceeding. The attempted persuasion by the defendant may have occurred through one of the following: threats, caused physical injury, emotional injury, or economic injury to, caused property damage to, […]
What is Strangulation or Suffocation in Massachusetts?
Strangulation or suffocation is a felony in Massachusetts and can carry a sentence of up to five years in State Prison as well as fines. Someone commits the offense of strangulation and suffocation if they intentionally interrupt normal breathing patterns or circulation of blood of another person. If you’re charged with strangulation or suffocation, you need […]
What is Pretrial Probation in Massachusetts?
Pretrial probation in Massachusetts is a way to get your pending criminal charge dismissed. This is also called a general continuance. Whether you are approved for pretrial probation depends on what the prosecutor assigned to your case decides. Pretrial probation is fairly difficult to obtain, but if you do, it is a great position to […]
Do I Need an Attorney for a Clerk Magistrate Hearing?
If you’ve received a notice for a clerk magistrate hearing, it may be intimidating. You may wonder what this means and how to fight the charges. A criminal defense attorney can help defend you in your clerk magistrate hearing. Call or text me today at (617) 295-7500, and let’s get started on your defense. What […]
What is Bail in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, bail is a cash amount that must be posted to secure someone’s release from jail while criminal charges are pending. A bail magistrate sets the required cash amount, and once the money is paid, it is handed over to the clerk or jail. If you’re being charged with a crime, you will generally […]