Defense Against Firearm Charges for Students in Newton District Court
Being charged with gun possession in Massachusetts is a serious matter—especially for Boston College students. Massachusetts enforces some of the strictest firearm laws in the nation, with violations carrying mandatory minimum jail sentences, even for first-time offenders.
At Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, we know how these cases unfold in Newton District Court and understand what's at stake for students. From potential academic expulsion to a felony criminal record, we fight to protect your rights, your future, and your education.
📞 Call (857) 229-2442 now for a free consultation with an experienced defense attorney.
What Constitutes Illegal Gun Possession in Massachusetts?
Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 269, Section 10, it is illegal to:
🔹 Carry a firearm outside your home or business without a valid License to Carry (LTC)
🔹 Possess ammunition or loaded weapons without proper authorization
🔹 Transport weapons improperly (e.g., unlocked or concealed)
Even if the firearm wasn't used, simply possessing it without a valid license can result in mandatory jail time. Penalties may include:
⛓️ Up to 18 months mandatory minimum jail time
🗃️ Felony conviction
💰 Fines and probation
⚖️ Enhanced penalties for school zones or prior offenses
How Boston College Handles Gun Possession Cases
Boston College's Code of Student Conduct strictly prohibits the possession or use of weapons on or off-campus, including:
🔫 Firearms, ammunition, explosives
🔪 Knives, tasers, and other prohibited items
Any violation—whether on-campus or off—can lead to:
📤 Immediate interim suspension
📋 Student conduct investigations
🚫 Expulsion or permanent disciplinary record
Review the policy under BC's community standards: Boston College Student Code of Conduct – Section 5
Common Ways Students Are Charged
We've defended students charged with illegal gun possession in cases involving:
🚗 A gun found in a car during a traffic stop
🏠 Firearms discovered in off-campus apartments or dorm rooms
🔄 A weapon borrowed or owned by someone else but found in your possession
🌎 Students bringing out-of-state firearms, unaware of Massachusetts licensing rules
Massachusetts has no reciprocity with other states. Even if a student legally owns a firearm elsewhere, bringing it to Massachusetts without an LTC is a felony offense.
Academic and Legal Consequences
For Boston College students, a gun possession charge can jeopardize:
🎓 Enrollment – Suspension or expulsion
🏅 Scholarships – Particularly for athletics or merit-based aid
🛏️ Housing eligibility
💼 Future career paths – Especially in law, medicine, military, or government
For international students, these charges can also lead to immigration consequences, including removal proceedings or visa revocation.
What Parents Should Know
We work closely with parents navigating this stressful situation. Common questions include:
Do we need a lawyer?
Yes. These are felony-level charges that require professional legal representation.
Will Boston College find out?
In most cases, yes, due to the severity of the charges.
Can this be resolved without jail or a record?
Possibly, depending on the case. We explore all options to minimize consequences.
We aim to mitigate both criminal and university consequences wherever possible.
Legal Defenses to Gun Possession
Our attorneys challenge charges based on:
🔍 Illegal search/seizure by police or campus authorities
🔗 Lack of constructive possession (it wasn't your weapon)
📜 Valid license defense (e.g., paperwork errors, out-of-state confusion)
⚖️ Fourth Amendment violations
While Massachusetts gun laws are strict, strong legal defenses exist—especially for students with no prior record.
What to Expect at Newton District Court
Boston College students are typically arraigned and prosecuted at Newton District Court, where we have extensive experience. Court stages include:
⚖️ Arraignment – Initial plea entered
📅 Pre-trial hearings – Motions to suppress, plea negotiations
🗳️ Trial or resolution – We aim for pre-trial dismissal or reduction where possible
Due to the seriousness of gun offenses, diversion programs are rare, but resolutions like CWOFs or probation may be attainable.
Why Choose Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm?
⚖️ Deep knowledge of Massachusetts gun laws
🎓 Extensive experience defending college students in Newton District Court
🔒 Focus on protecting your record, especially for first-time offenders
📣 Trusted by students and parents throughout Greater Boston
Whether facing criminal prosecution or university discipline, we provide a comprehensive defense strategy to protect your future.
Contact Us Today
Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm
📍 572 Washington Street, Suite 21, Wellesley, MA 02482
📞 (857) 229-2442
If you or your Boston College student is facing a gun possession charge, don't wait. Contact us for a free, confidential consultation.
🚨 URGENT: Facing gun possession charges? Call now for fast, strategic legal guidance.
