Natick Assault and Battery Defense Lawyer

If you or a loved one is facing assault and battery charges in Natick, MA, you need an experienced defense attorney to protect your rights, reputation, and future. At Marin, Barrett & Murphy, we aggressively defend individuals accused of violent crimes, ensuring the best possible legal outcome.

Call us now for a free consultation: (857) 229-2442

Understanding Assault and Battery in Massachusetts

What is Assault? (M.G.L. c. 265, § 13A)

In Massachusetts, assault is defined as:

• Attempted Battery: An attempt to physically harm someone, even if no contact occurs.
• Threatening Behavior: An act that puts another person in reasonable fear of imminent harm.

No physical contact is required for an assault charge—just the credible threat of harm.

What is Battery? (M.G.L. c. 265, § 13A)

Battery occurs when:

• A person intentionally touches another person in a harmful or offensive way.
• The contact was without consent and resulted in injury or discomfort.

Assault and battery often occur together, leading to combined charges.

Types of Assault and Battery Charges in Massachusetts

1. Simple Assault and Battery

   • Misdemeanor offense.
   • Punishable by up to 2.5 years in jail and fines.

2. Aggravated Assault and Battery (M.G.L. c. 265, § 13A(b))

   • Involves serious bodily injury, use of a weapon, or an attack on a vulnerable individual (elderly, disabled, pregnant person).
   • Felony charge with potential state prison time.

3. Domestic Assault and Battery (M.G.L. c. 265, § 13M)

   • Involves an attack on a family member, spouse, or household member.
   • May lead to restraining orders and mandatory counseling.
   • Could lead to Massachusetts Department of Children and Families (DCF) Involvement

4. Assault with a Dangerous Weapon (M.G.L. c. 265, § 15A)

   • The use of an object (knife, bat, gun, car, etc.) to threaten or harm someone.
   • Punishable by up to 10 years in state prison.

5. Assault and Battery on a Police Officer (M.G.L. c. 265, § 13D)

   • Assaulting a law enforcement officer leads to enhanced penalties.
   • Mandatory jail time upon conviction.

Penalties for Assault and Battery in Massachusetts

Misdemeanor Assault and Battery

• Up to 2.5 years in jail.
• Fines and probation.
• Possible anger management classes.

Felony Assault and Battery

• 5 to 20 years in state prison.
• Permanent criminal record.
• Restrictions on firearm ownership and employment opportunities.

Collateral Consequences

• Loss of employment opportunities.
• Difficulty securing housing or loans.
• Immigration consequences for non-citizens.

Statute of Limitations for Assault and Battery in Massachusetts

• Misdemeanor Assault and Battery: 6 years (M.G.L. c. 277, § 63).
• Felony Assault and Battery: No statute of limitations for serious violent felonies (e.g., aggravated assault with serious injury).
• Assault and Battery on a Minor: May be prosecuted years later, depending on the circumstances.

If you are under investigation, acting before charges are filed is crucial. Contact Marin, Barrett & Murphy to discuss your options.

Defenses Against Assault and Battery Charges

1. Self-Defense

   You used reasonable force to protect yourself from harm.

2. Defense of Others

   You intervened to protect someone else from an attack.

3. False Accusations/Never Happened

   The alleged victim is fabricating the charges out of anger, revenge, or mistaken identity.

4. Lack of Intent

   The incident was accidental, and there was no criminal intent.

5. Insufficient Evidence

   The prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Weak evidence can lead to case dismissal.

Local Information: Assault and Battery Cases in Natick

Where Are Cases Heard?

Most assault and battery cases from Natick are handled at:

• Natick/Framingham/Natick District Court
• Address: 600 Concord St, Framingham, MA 01702
• Phone: (508) 875-7461

More severe felony cases may be transferred to Superior Court.

Natick Police Department Contact Information

• Address: 20 E Central St, Natick, MA 01760
• Phone: (508) 647-9500

Why You Need a Natick Assault and Battery Lawyer

1. Prevent Harsh Consequences

   Avoid jail time and permanent criminal records.

2. Get Charges Reduced or Dismissed

   We explore plea deals, alternative sentencing, or dismissals based on weak evidence.

3. Protect Your Reputation and Future

   An assault charge can ruin career prospects—our attorneys fight to keep your record clean.

Why Choose Marin, Barrett & Murphy?

At Marin, Barrett & Murphy, we provide:

• Aggressive Legal Defense – We fight to protect your rights.
• Compassionate Representation – We understand how stressful criminal charges can be.
• Local Expertise – We know how Natick courts handle assault cases.

FAQs About Assault and Battery in Natick

1. Can I be charged with assault even if I didn't hit anyone?

Yes. Assault only requires a threat of harm, not physical contact.

2. What if the alleged victim wants to drop charges?

In Massachusetts, the prosecutor decides whether to proceed, not the alleged victim.

3. How long does an assault and battery case take?

It varies. Misdemeanor cases may be resolved in months, while felony cases can take over a year.

4. Can I get my record sealed?

Some assault charges may be sealed after a waiting period, but felony convictions are more difficult to erase.

Take Action Now – Call a Natick Assault and Battery Lawyer Today

If you're facing assault and battery charges, don't wait—your future is at stake. Call Marin, Barrett & Murphy today for aggressive and experienced defense.

📞 Free Consultation: (857) 229-2442

📍 Office Address: 572 Washington Street, Suite 21, Wellesley, MA 02482

Protect your rights. Defend your future. Call now!