Criminal Defense Dorchester Massachusetts

What Classifies As A Crime In Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, a crime is a violent offense committed against a person or property. It is important to note that not all crimes are treated the same. While some crimes are more severe than others, all crimes are accompanied by varying harsh penalties. The penalties will correlate to whether a crime is punishable by serving a term in county jail or state prison. If an offense is punishable by serving in a county jail, it is a misdemeanor. However, if the offense can be punished by serving in state prison, then it is a felony. Criminal law can be confusing. As such, it is highly advised to seek the legal assistance of a criminal defense lawyer who represents individuals in Dorchester, MA, and surrounding areas.

Crimes that are penalized in Massachusetts include:

• Assault
• Assault and Battery
• Aggravated Assault
• Theft
• Drug Possession
• Drug Crimes
• Gun and Weapon Violations
• Illegal Possession of Weapons or Firearms
• Murder
• Homicide
• Domestic Violence
• Sex Crimes
• Arson
• Kidnapping
• Armed Robbery
• Vandalism

When a crime is committed, the prosecution is relentless. They will seek to enforce the law and punish to the max. But, the key is to remember that you have rights. Moreover, you are not guilty until proven otherwise. The burden of proof falls on the prosecution, and they must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you are guilty of committing the crime they are charging you with. That is why it is crucial to hire an expert criminal defense lawyer. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can build an aggressive defense around your case, protect your rights, and weaken the prosecution’s arguments.

What Is The Difference Between A Misdemeanor And A Felony In Dorchester, MA?

Unlike most states, crimes are sentenced differently in Massachusetts. If a person is convicted of a crime, the punishment that is rendered by the judge will either be a misdemeanor or a felony. As previously mentioned, if the defendant is facing time in a local jail, such as a county jail, or a correctional facility, he or she is looking at a misdemeanor. But, if the crime is punishable by serving time in state prison, the conviction is a felony. Both misdemeanors and felonies are subject to significant fines, lengthy jail or prison terms, probation, community service, restraining orders, collateral consequences, and other kinds of mandatory restitution. If you are facing a misdemeanor charge, a professional misdemeanors attorney should be consulted. A misdemeanors attorney can evaluate your case and determine the best course of action.

Knowing the difference between a state prison and correction facility, and which courts the crimes are heard, helps clarify the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony. There is no doubt that the courts play a vital role in defining what constitutes a misdemeanor and a felony. Figuring out what a felony versus a misdemeanor is can be confusing. After all, if an offense can possibly be punished with a state prison sentence, it is a felony. Trying to deduce whether or not a crime is a felony without a criminal defense lawyer is challenging enough. Therefore, if you have been charged with a crime, it is wise to enlist a misdemeanors attorney for legal advice.

What Happens If I Am Arrested And Charged With A Drug Crime In Dorchester, MA?

If you are arrested and charged with a drug crime in Dorchester, MA, a drug cases attorney should be consulted right away. Drug crimes are serious in Massachusetts and can result in significant penalties. The law that involves the possession of drugs is stringent, and therefore should not be taken lightly. Some drug offenses can be charged as misdemeanors while more serious drug crimes are felonies. Drug crime penalties will differ depending on the classification of the drug and the amount in possession. If you are facing drug charges, a drug cases attorney can explain the penalties associated with your charges and how to best move forward with your case.

What Happens If I Am Arrested And Charged With A Gun Violation In Dorchester, MA?

Even though the US Constitution grants the right to bear arms through the second amendment, each state reserves the right to regulate the law involving the use and ownership of arms. Massachusetts is no exemption. In fact, Massachusetts is one of the strictest states when it comes to gun or firearm ownership and use. If you are arrested and charged with a gun violation in Dorchester, MA, you should not forgo legal representation from a knowledgeable gun cases attorney. As soon as you have been charged with a gun violation, your rights and freedoms are at stake. If convicted, you will be sentenced to serve a mandatory minimum of 18 months in prison, pay hefty fines, lose the right to own or use firearms, and forfeit other privileges. At the Patrick Long Law Firm, our gun cases attorney has extensive experience representing clients charged with guns or weapons violations. As such, we are prepared to handle even the most challenging cases.