Protecting Your Future in Framingham District Court and on Campus
If you or your college-aged child is facing a domestic violence charge while attending Framingham State University, you're likely overwhelmed, scared, and unsure of what comes next. These cases are handled in Framingham District Court, and Massachusetts prosecutors take them seriously—especially when they involve young adults and intimate relationships.
At Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, we know how to handle these cases with both strategic skill and sensitivity. We represent students and families through the criminal court process and during any simultaneous university conduct hearings, aiming to protect reputations, records, and futures.
📞 Call (857) 229-2442 now for a free consultation with a top student defense attorney.
What Counts as Domestic Violence in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, domestic violence includes a broad range of offenses involving:
🔹 Current or former dating partners
🔹 Roommates or housemates
🔹 Family or household members
Common charges include:
⚖️ Assault and Battery on a Family/Household Member (M.G.L. c. 265 §13M)
⚠️ Threats to Commit a Crime
🚫 Violation of a 209A Restraining Order
Police are required to make an arrest if there's probable cause of a domestic assault—even if the alleged victim doesn't want charges pursued.
What Happens in Framingham District Court?
If your student is arrested for domestic violence in Framingham, they will appear at Framingham District Court, often the next business day for arraignment. Common steps include:
📜 Arraignment: Charges are formally read
💰 Bail Conditions: Judge may issue a no-contact order, meaning your child can't communicate with the alleged victim—even if they live together or share a class
⚖️ Pretrial Hearings: Where evidence is shared, and defenses may be raised
🏛️ Trial or Resolution: Could include dismissal, pretrial probation, or trial if unresolved
Will Framingham State University Take Action?
Yes. Even if the incident occurred off-campus, Framingham State may initiate a disciplinary process under the Student Code of Conduct. The Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards conducts its own investigation.
Potential consequences include:
📋 Probation or suspension
🏠 Loss of campus housing
🚫 No-contact directives on campus
🚪 Expulsion in serious cases
It's possible to be found “not responsible” at school even if the case proceeds in court—or vice versa. We help prepare students for both.
What Should Parents Expect?
Will This Impact Their Future?
Yes. Domestic violence charges—whether proven or not—can derail career paths, especially for students pursuing education, law enforcement, healthcare, or government positions.
Can We Keep This Off Their Record?
It depends. First-time offenders may be eligible for pretrial probation or dismissal, which could later be sealed. Our goal is always to preserve a clean record.
Do We Need a Lawyer?
Definitely. The stakes are too high to risk going unrepresented. We offer comprehensive support in both court and school proceedings.
Can the Other Person Drop the Charges?
Not really. In Massachusetts, prosecutors—not the victim—control the case once an arrest is made. The other person's wishes may be considered but don't automatically end the case.
Our Legal Strategy for Students
Our team evaluates every aspect of the case, including:
👮 Whether the police followed proper arrest procedures
🗣️ If the alleged victim's statements are inconsistent
📜 Whether a no-contact order can be modified or challenged
✅ Whether your child qualifies for alternative resolutions like pretrial diversion
We also communicate with university officials (when appropriate) to minimize academic disruption and disciplinary fallout.
Why Choose Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm?
🎯 We've represented students from colleges across Massachusetts—and we know how to balance courtroom defense with campus strategy.
🔍 We're familiar with Framingham District Court procedure and Framingham State University policies.
🤝 We understand the unique pressures students and parents face.
Contact a Student Defense Attorney Today
Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm
📍 572 Washington Street, Suite 21, Wellesley, MA 02482
📞 (857) 229-2442
If your Framingham State student is facing a domestic violence charge, don't wait. The earlier we get involved, the more options we have to protect their rights and future.
🚨 URGENT: Facing domestic violence charges near Framingham State? Call now for a free, confidential consultation.
