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Speak With a Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer Immediately

Being accused of domestic violence in Massachusetts can trigger immediate and life-altering consequences. You may be arrested without warning, removed from your home, served with a 209A restraining order, lose access to your children, and face serious criminal charges — even if the alleged victim does not want to press charges.

If you are under investigation or have been charged, you need an experienced Boston domestic violence defense lawyer who understands how these cases are prosecuted in local courts and how to protect your rights from the very first court appearance.

The Law Offices of Elliot Savitz & Scott Bradley aggressively defend individuals accused of domestic violence throughout Boston and surrounding Massachusetts courts.

What Is Considered Domestic Violence in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, domestic violence is not a separate criminal charge — it typically involves other criminal offenses when the alleged victim is a “family or household member.”

  • A household member may include:
  • A spouse or former spouse
  • Someone you live with or previously lived with
  • A person with whom you share a child
  • A current or former dating partner
  • A blood relative

Common domestic violence-related charges include:

Because of the relationship element, prosecutors often pursue these cases aggressively in Boston and Suffolk County courts.

What Happens After a Domestic Violence Arrest in Boston?

Domestic violence cases move quickly — often within hours.

  • After an arrest, you can expect:
  • Immediate booking and processing
  • Arraignment, usually the next court day
  • A request for bail conditions or detention
  • A mandatory no-contact order
  • Possible issuance of a 209A restraining order
  • Immediate surrender of firearms and licenses

Even a first-time offense can carry potential jail time of up to 2.5 years in a House of Correction, along with probation, mandatory programs, and long-term criminal consequences.

The first 24 hours are critical. What you say — and what you do — can dramatically affect the outcome of your case.

What Is a 209A Restraining Order?

A 209A restraining order is a civil protection order issued under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 209A. It can:

  • Prohibit contact with the alleged victim
  • Order you to vacate your home
  • Restrict access to children
  • Require surrender of firearms
  • Appear in background checks

Violating a restraining order is a separate criminal offense that can result in immediate arrest and additional jail exposure.

Restraining orders are often issued ex parte (without you present), meaning you may be ordered out of your home before you have a chance to defend yourself.

What If the Alleged Victim Wants the Charges Dropped?

Many people assume that if the alleged victim wants to “drop the charges,” the case will disappear.

That is not how Massachusetts law works.

The Commonwealth controls the prosecution — not the alleged victim. Prosecutors can proceed even if the complainant refuses to cooperate. Prior statements, 911 recordings, body camera footage, and police reports may still be used as evidence.
This is why experienced legal representation is essential from the beginning. » Learn more

Can You Go to Jail for a First-Time Domestic Violence Charge?

Yes. Even a first offense can carry:

  • Up to 2.5 years in a House of Correction
  • تحت مراقبت
  • Mandatory batterer’s intervention programs
  • Loss of firearm rights
  • A permanent criminal record

A conviction can affect employment, housing, professional licensing, immigration status, and custody proceedings. » Learn more

How We Defend Domestic Violence Charges

Domestic violence cases are often emotionally charged and factually complex. They frequently arise during:

  • Divorce disputes
  • Child custody conflicts
  • Relationship breakups
  • Heated arguments
  • Situations involving alcohol
  • Our defense strategy may include:
  • Challenging inconsistencies in statements
  • Reviewing 911 recordings and police body camera footage
  • Examining medical records
  • Identifying motives to fabricate or exaggerate
  • Presenting evidence of self-defense
  • Filing motions to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence
  • Negotiating dismissals or reductions where appropriate

As experienced Boston domestic violence defense attorneys, we understand that these cases are rarely as simple as the initial police report suggests.

The Immediate Consequences You May Not Expect

Many people are surprised to learn that domestic violence accusations can impact:

  • Child custody arrangements
  • Divorce proceedings
  • Immigration status
  • Professional licenses
  • Firearm ownership
  • Security clearances

Even before trial, protective orders and no-contact conditions can dramatically disrupt your life.

The sooner an attorney intervenes, the more options may be available.

 


Frequently Asked Questions About Domestic Violence Charges in Boston

Can I contact the alleged victim if they reach out to me?
No. If there is a no-contact order in place, any contact — even if initiated by the other person — can result in immediate arrest.

Will the charges be dismissed if the alleged victim does not appear in court?
Not necessarily. Prosecutors may attempt to move forward using prior recorded statements.

What if the allegations are false?
False allegations do occur, particularly during divorce or custody disputes. A defense attorney can challenge credibility and present contradictory evidence.

Will I lose my gun license?
Yes. A domestic violence charge or 209A order typically requires immediate surrender of firearms and firearm licenses under Massachusetts law.

 


امروز با دفاتر حقوقی الیوت ساویتز و اسکات بردلی تماس بگیرید

Domestic violence charges in Massachusetts move fast — and the consequences begin immediately. From the moment of arrest, prosecutors begin building their case. Protective orders can remove you from your home. Firearms may be seized. Bail conditions may restrict your contact with family members.

Do not speak to police. Do not contact the alleged victim. Do not assume the case will resolve itself.

در دفاتر حقوقی الیوت ساویتز و اسکات بردلی, we have extensive experience defending clients accused of domestic violence in Boston and throughout Suffolk County and surrounding Massachusetts courts. We understand how these cases are prosecuted — and how to challenge weak evidence, expose inconsistencies, and protect your future.

Early intervention can mean the difference between a dismissal, a reduced charge, or a conviction that follows you for years.

If you are facing domestic violence allegations, contact our office immediately for a confidential consultation and strategic guidance tailored to your situation.