Criminal Defense

AReas of expertise

Massachusetts Criminal Lawyer

Criminal law is a complex and broad field in Massachusetts, and Conley Law can help in a number of ways. The Criminal Justice system is frightening, and the consequences are severe. When you need a criminal defense attorney you cannot afford to have someone that you do not believe in, or someone who doesn't believe in you.

Felony offenses

If you are charged with a felony in Massachusetts, you could face significant jail time or even a state prison sentence. Beyond that, a convicted felon will have the stigma and collateral consequences follow them around for the rest of their life. While the serious nature of some crimes, such as rape, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, or armed robbery makes the classification as a felony clear, less serious charges, such as vandalism, or removing of a theft detection device, and others are also felonies. No matter what kind of felony you are charged with you should not face it without a trusted lawyer.

Misdemeanor offenses

Although a misdemeanor arrest may sound minor, it can still have serious consequences. In Massachusetts, some misdemeanors can result in more than two years of incarceration. Whether you have been arrested, or received a notice to appear in court to face misdemeanor charges, you should not hesitate to retain an experienced criminal attorney as soon as possible.

Criminal Appeals

A criminal conviction does not have to be the end of your case. The court makes mistakes, prosecutors overreach, and even your attorney could have missed something, leading to a conviction. You have the right to file an appeal or a motion for a new trial. Successful appeals require significant knowledge of the law, and trained written and oral advocacy. You should not hesitate to get an experienced appellate attorney to have your case reviewed for post-conviction relief.

Domestic violence charges

Massachusetts takes violence against a spouse or domestic partner extremely seriously. If the police receive allegations of domestic violence, it almost always leads to an arrest. Even if the other person does not want to press charges, the District Attorney’s Office may decide to press the charges using other evidence. It is important to have a trusted lawyer on your side to help navigate a charge of assaulting a family or household member.

firearm crimes

Guns are one of the most highly regulated items in the United States. In Massachusetts, violations of the numerous firearm laws carry significant penalties, including mandatory minimum jail sentences. Whether you are charged with unlawful possession, carrying, or improper storage of a firearm or ammunition, you should not hesitate to speak with a lawyer.

drug offenses

There are many substances that are illegal to possess in Massachusetts. These substances are classified in various “Classes” of drugs. Simple possession of an illegal drug is generally a misdemeanor, but the police will often charge people with felony drug offenses such as possession with intent to distribute, or trafficking. 

Assualt or Assault and Battery

Physical altercations with other people often result in criminal charges. Even when there is no physical contact, a threat or attempt to touch someone can be a crime. Moreover, even an non-harmful, offensive touching of another person is a crime. If you have been charged with an assault offense, it can be very serious and you shouldn’t hesitate to retain representation.

Theft and shoplifitng

Stealing, in any form, can result in court involvement. Theft offenses can range from a first offense shoplifting to grand larceny felonies, if the value of what was stolen is over $1,200. Theft offenses present their own unique challenges and an experienced criminal defense lawyer can help.

motor vehicle offenses

Driving on the roads of Massachusetts can be dangerous. Not just because of aggressive Massachusetts drivers, but because there are numerous criminal charges that can arise from driving or vehicle ownership. Even driving on a suspended license can lead to an arrest. More serious offenses such as receiving a stolen vehicle, negligent operation, or operating under the influence of alcohol can all carry serious jail sentences.

clerk magistrate's hearings

In some circumstances, someone charged with a crime has the opportunity to contest it in front of a clerk magistrate before it issues. At this hearing, a Clerk determines if there is probable cause for the charge, and, in some circumstances, can decline to issue a criminal complaint even if there is probable cause. Once a charge issues, it is on your permanent criminal record. Skilled legal representation at this hearing could be the difference between having a charge that stays on your record, or being able to say you have no record.

Restraining orders and restraining order violations

Although a restraining order is a civil matter, it is closely related to criminal law. Often a restraining order is sought in conjunction with a criminal offense, such as a domestic violence charge, or criminal harassment. Additionally, a violation of a restraining order is a crime. This applies to both abuse protection orders under G.L. c. 209A, and harassment prevention orders under G.L. c. 258E. Conley Law will represent clients both in restraining order violations and civil restraining order hearings.

criminal record sealing

A criminal record can have dramatic collateral effects in areas such as employment, volunteer activities, or any other activity that requires a background check. Sealing your criminal record can minimize the effects of your criminal record in your life. Depending on the age and severity of a criminal record, different procedures are required, and a record sealing attorney can help you in this process.

criminal record expungement

While sealing a record is good for many things, in certain circumstances it is not sufficient to keep your record from hurting your future. Expungement, or the actual legal destruction of the record, may be an option for some people. In Massachusetts, expungement is available only in limited circumstances. An attorney with familiarity with the expungement laws can help you determine the applicability of this option, and help guide your expungement petition to success.

Witness representation

Not just people charged with crimes are unwittingly thrust into the criminal justice system. Sometimes a witness or victim must make various choices as to their involvement in a case. Perhaps the witness could open themselves to criminal liability by testifying, or maybe they have another privilege that they can invoke so they are not required to testify. If you are a witness or victim, an attorney representing you can help you manage your communications with the police, the District Attorney’s Office, and the Court to make sure your rights are protected.