Have you been accused of domestic violence? Domestic violence offenses are taken very seriously in Massachusetts courts. Police officers and prosecutors pursue these accusations to the fullest extent of the law. However, the legal system also recognizes that false accusations can occur, whether due to misunderstandings, miscommunication during emotionally charged situations, or deliberate misrepresentation.
At Nate Amendola Defense, our Massachusetts domestic violence lawyers have helped many individuals facing such charges and can take aggressive action to help you achieve the best possible result. If you or someone you know has been charged with a domestic violence crime, getting trusted legal representation should be your top priority. An experienced domestic violence defense attorney in Massachusetts can help examine the evidence, identify inconsistencies in accusations, and protect your rights throughout the legal process.
Defending Against Domestic Violence Charges
Our team of Massachusetts criminal defense lawyers understands that domestic violence accusations can arise from complex family dynamics and emotional situations. We thoroughly investigate each case, examining:
- Physical evidence and documentation
- Witness testimony and statements
- Inconsistencies in the accuser’s account
- Potential motivations behind accusations
- Your constitutional rights throughout the process
We approach each case with the understanding that accusations must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt, and we work diligently to ensure your side of the story is heard
For a free legal consultation, call (781) 740-0800
Domestic Violence Charges in Massachusetts
Under Massachusetts law, domestic violence is considered to be actions of abuse. The abuse can be physical, emotional, or sexual. It can also include economic abuse as well as neglect. Abuse involves trying to or actually causing physical harm, putting the victim in imminent fear of harm, or making the victim have sexual relations without consent through force or duress (also known as a sex crime). Domestic violence cases can include domestic assault and battery, stalking, and violating a protective order.
Those who can be involved in domestic abuse cases include:
- Spouses and ex-spouses
- Individuals living together or who have lived together in the past
- Individuals related by marriage or blood
- Individuals who have a child together
- Dating partners or past dating partners
Domestic Violence Penalties in Massachusetts
When it comes to a domestic assault and battery conviction, a first offense is punishable by jail time of up to two and a half years and/or a fine of up to $5,000. Subsequent offenses may result in prison time of up to five years. Additional penalties can include mandatory completion of a batterer’s program as well as being subjected to the restrictions of a protective order.
The Serious Consequences of Domestic Violence Charges
Even when domestic violence allegations are disputed or unproven, being charged can have immediate and lasting consequences on your life. In Massachusetts, these charges can result in:
- Criminal penalties including potential jail time, fines, and mandatory counseling programs
- Employment consequences such as job loss, difficulty finding new employment, or loss of professional licenses
- Housing issues including eviction from shared residences or difficulty securing future housing
- Immigration implications for non-citizens, potentially affecting visa status or citizenship applications
- Child custody and visitation impacts that can limit your relationship with your children
- Firearm restrictions that may prohibit you from owning or possessing firearms
- Permanent criminal record that appears on background checks for employment, housing, and other opportunities
Immediate Protective Measures and Their Effects
When domestic violence charges are filed in Massachusetts, courts often issue immediate restraining orders or protective orders, even before you have had a chance to defend yourself. These emergency measures can:
- Require you to leave your home immediately, regardless of ownership or lease agreements
- Prohibit contact with family members, including your children
- Freeze joint bank accounts and financial assets
- Restrict your ability to retrieve personal belongings
- Impact your ability to continue working if your job requires contact with the protected person
- Remain in effect for extended periods, sometimes months, while the case proceeds through the court system
The immediate nature of these consequences underscores why prompt legal representation is crucial to protect your rights and begin building your defense strategy as quickly as possible.
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Schedule a Free Consultation with a Massachusetts Domestic Violence Lawyer Today
If you’ve been arrested for domestic violence or assault and battery, you should speak to an experienced domestic violence defense attorney in Massachusetts as soon as possible. You can contact us online or call our office directly to schedule your free consultation. We have been proudly servicing clients throughout Norwell, Massachusetts, and surrounding areas such as Plymouth, Barnstable, Nantucket, and more.
Call or text (781) 740-0800 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
