Boston Domestic Assault & Battery Lawyer
Aggressive Defense Against Domestic Violence Charges in Massachusetts
I. Introduction
Domestic assault and battery charges in Boston are among the most serious and emotionally charged criminal allegations a person can face. Under Massachusetts law, these cases are prosecuted aggressively — even when there are no visible injuries and even when the alleged victim does not want to pursue charges.
A heated argument, misunderstanding, or false allegation can quickly escalate into an arrest, arraignment, and immediate no-contact order.
Under Massachusetts law, a charge becomes “domestic” when the alleged incident involves:
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A spouse or former spouse
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A current or former dating partner
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A family or household member
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A roommate
Me and my team here at Law Offices of Kensley Barrett understand that these cases can impact every aspect of your life — your freedom, your reputation, your parental rights, and your firearm rights. Immediate legal intervention is critical to protecting your record and your future.
II. Massachusetts Domestic Assault & Battery Law (M.G.L. c. 265, §13A)
Domestic assault and battery is prosecuted under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 265, Section 13A.
Under this statute, assault and battery may involve:
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Intentional, unconsented touching
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Physical force, however slight
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Allegations of causing bodily injury
When the alleged victim falls within a qualifying domestic relationship, prosecutors treat the case as domestic violence, which carries enhanced scrutiny and collateral consequences.
Potential penalties include:
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Up to 2.5 years in a house of correction
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Probation with strict conditions
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Mandatory participation in a certified batterer's intervention program
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Issuance of a 209A restraining order
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Loss of firearm rights under Massachusetts and federal law
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Immigration consequences for non-citizens
It is important to understand that once charges are filed, the Commonwealth controls the case — not the alleged victim. Even if the complainant asks for dismissal, the prosecution may proceed.
In defending these cases, I carefully examine:
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Whether the evidence supports the allegation
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Whether there are inconsistencies in statements
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Whether self-defense applies
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Whether police conducted a biased or incomplete investigation
These cases are often built on conflicting narratives. A strategic defense can expose weaknesses in the prosecution's case.
III. Boston Municipal Court Information
Most domestic assault and battery charges arising in Boston are handled in the Boston Municipal Court.
📍 Edward W. Brooke Courthouse
24 New Chardon Street
Boston, MA 02114
📞 (617) 788-8700
Massachusetts follows a mandatory arrest policy in many domestic violence situations. Arraignments often occur the next business day after arrest, and judges frequently issue temporary restraining orders at that first appearance.
Pretrial no-contact orders can:
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Force you to leave your home
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Prevent contact with your children
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Restrict access to firearms
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Impact employment
Early representation at arraignment is critical to advocating for fair bail conditions and addressing protective orders strategically.
You can visit the Boston Municipal Court website here:
https://www.mass.gov/orgs/boston-municipal-court
IV. Why Choose Law Offices of Kensley Barrett
Domestic assault cases require discretion, strategy, and courtroom experience. These are not cases to approach casually.
Me and my team here at Law Offices of Kensley Barrett provide:
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Experienced defense against domestic assault and battery charges in Massachusetts
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Strategic challenges to weak, exaggerated, or false allegations
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Immediate advocacy regarding restraining orders and no-contact provisions
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Protection of parental rights and firearm rights whenever possible
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Skilled negotiation for dismissal, reduction, or pretrial resolution
I understand how quickly a domestic allegation can disrupt your life. I approach every case with seriousness, preparation, and respect for your side of the story.
My focus is always to:
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Protect your freedom
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Safeguard your criminal record
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Minimize collateral consequences
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Position your case for the strongest possible outcome
An accusation does not equal a conviction — and you deserve a powerful defense.
Contact Law Offices of Kensley Barrett Today
If you have been charged with domestic assault and battery in Boston, time matters. The first court appearance can shape the direction of your case.
Law Offices of Kensley Barrett
Massachusetts Office:
572 Washington Street
Wellesley, MA 02482
📞 857.229.2442
Rhode Island Office:
1000 Chapel View Blvd
Cranston, RI 02920
📞 401.425.4059
🌐 https://www.krbarrettlaw.com/
Do not face a domestic violence charge alone. Let me protect your rights, your reputation, and your future.
