Unlike what you might assume from crime shows on TV, not every criminal case begins with an arrest. In some cases, the first step is actually a hearing before a clerk magistrate, [...]
If someone breaks into your home, and if you shoot and kill the intruder, are you protected from criminal charges? What if you get into a bar fight that another patron started, [...]
Holiday season is upon us. While it’s a joyful time to visit family and friends, all those holiday parties mean more cars on the road—with more drunk drivers and car accidents. In [...]
The Massachusetts legislature has substantially expanded the scope of the law that allows judges to issue “restraining orders” against certain individuals. The original law (Chapter 209A) has been in effect since 1978, [...]
A criminal record can have negative consequences long after your court process is over, even if you were not convicted. A criminal record can limit your employment, housing options, educational opportunities, and [...]
Walking into a courthouse for your arraignment before a judge can be very intimidating, especially if you’re a newcomer to the criminal justice system. Here’s what to expect if you’ve been arrested [...]
Congratulations! You’ve found your life partner, and you’re engaged. The last thing you want to think about is what will happen if your marriage ends. Nonetheless, it may be worthwhile to consider [...]
If you are one of 27,000 Massachusetts defendants convicted of Operating Under the Influence (OUI) of alcohol between 2011 and 2019, you might have a right to a retrial. A recent decision [...]
After years of research and public debate, the Worcester Police Department now requires officers to use body-worn cameras (BWCs). The WPD’s new policy follows a nationwide trend to increase police accountability by [...]
