Common Criminal Charges in Massachusetts – and How Lake Shore Legal Can Defend You

Being charged with a crime in Massachusetts is one of the most stressful situations a person can face. Whether it’s your first time dealing with the legal system or you’ve been through it before, the uncertainty can feel overwhelming. At Lake Shore Legal, we believe knowledge is power — and the right defense strategy can make all the difference.

Below, we break down some of the most common criminal charges in Massachusetts, the potential consequences, and the defense strategies our attorneys often use to protect clients.

Common Criminal Charges in Massachusetts

1. Operating Under the Influence (OUI/DUI)

An OUI charge can come from driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08% or higher (or .02% for drivers under 21), or simply being “impaired” by alcohol or drugs.

Consequences: License suspension, fines, probation, alcohol education classes, and in repeat cases, jail time and felony charges.

Defenses: Challenging the legality of the traffic stop, questioning the accuracy of field sobriety or breathalyzer tests, and reviewing whether police respected your rights.

2. Drug Possession and Distribution

Massachusetts takes drug crimes seriously, especially when they involve distribution or trafficking. Even small amounts of controlled substances can lead to harsh penalties.

Consequences: Criminal records, loss of employment opportunities, probation, jail or prison sentences, and immigration consequences for non-citizens.

Defenses: Arguing unlawful search and seizure (was the stop or search legal?), challenging the credibility of evidence, and exposing weaknesses in how substances were tested or handled.

3. Assault and Battery

This charge applies to situations ranging from fights and domestic incidents to misunderstandings that get out of hand.

Consequences: Jail or prison time, restraining orders, fines, and a lasting criminal record. In domestic cases, there may also be child custody and family law complications.

Defenses: Demonstrating self-defense, lack of intent, mistaken identity, or inconsistencies in the alleged victim’s testimony.

4. Theft and Property Crimes

Shoplifting, larceny, and breaking and entering are common charges that can range from misdemeanors to serious felonies, depending on the value of the property and the circumstances.

Consequences: Fines, probation, restitution, and jail time for higher-value thefts or repeat offenses.

Defenses: Challenging intent to steal, mistaken identity, or demonstrating that the property was not actually taken unlawfully.

5. Probation Violations

Even after resolving a criminal case, a probation violation can land you back in court and at risk of jail.

Consequences: Additional probation terms, loss of probationary status, or incarceration.

Defenses: Showing compliance with probation conditions, challenging the basis for the alleged violation, or negotiating alternative resolutions.

How Lake Shore Legal Builds a Defense

At Lake Shore Legal, we know that every case is unique. That’s why our defense strategies always start with a thorough review of the facts, evidence, and police conduct. Some of the ways we protect our clients include:

• Challenging Evidence: Was it collected legally? Was it handled properly? If not, it may not be admissible in court.

• Protecting Your Rights: We look for any violations of your constitutional rights, such as unlawful searches or improper questioning.

• Questioning Witnesses: Testimony can be unreliable. We carefully examine witness statements for inconsistencies.

• Negotiating Outcomes: Sometimes the best strategy is negotiating reduced charges or alternative resolutions that keep your record clean.

• Fighting at Trial: If the evidence doesn’t support the charges, we’re prepared to take the case to trial and aggressively advocate for you.

Why Choose Lake Shore Legal?

We know how much is at stake when you’re facing criminal charges — your freedom, your license, your job, and your future. Our attorneys bring experience, determination, and a deep knowledge of Massachusetts law to every case.

At Lake Shore Legal, we don’t treat you like “just another case.” We listen, we strategize, and we fight for the best possible outcome.

Take the Next Step

If you or a loved one has been charged with a crime in Massachusetts, don’t wait to get help. The sooner you speak with an attorney, the more options you’ll have.

Contact Lake Shore Legal today for a confidential consultation. We’re here to stand with you and fight for your future.