Massachusetts Domestic Violence Defense Attorney

Domestic violence charges in Massachusetts are taken extremely seriously by prosecutors and courts. Even an accusation — without a conviction — can result in an immediate restraining order that removes you from your home, restricts contact with your children, and affects your employment. If you're facing domestic violence charges, you need an experienced attorney immediately.

What Counts as Domestic Violence in Massachusetts

Massachusetts law defines domestic violence broadly under G.L. c. 209A. It includes physical harm, attempted physical harm, placing a family or household member in fear of imminent serious physical harm, or causing a family or household member to engage in sexual relations by force or threat. Family and household members include current and former spouses, people who live or have lived together, people who have a child in common, and people who are or were in a substantive dating or engagement relationship.

Consequences of a Domestic Violence Conviction

• Criminal record — permanent, visible to employers and landlords
• Jail or house of arrest
• Loss of gun rights under federal law
• Restraining order preventing contact with family
• Loss of child custody or visitation
• Immigration consequences for non-citizens
• Professional license consequences

Our Defense Approach

• Immediate action to challenge or modify emergency restraining orders
• Thorough investigation of the incident and witness statements
• Self-defense arguments where applicable
• Challenging credibility of the alleged victim
• Lack of evidence — no independent witness, no injuries
• False allegations motivated by custody, divorce, or other disputes
• Negotiating for dismissal, pretrial diversion, or reduced charges

209A Restraining Order Defense

A 209A abuse prevention order can be issued without notice to you and can have immediate devastating consequences. We appear at emergency hearings, extension hearings, and fight to have false or exaggerated restraining orders vacated across all Massachusetts courts.