Needham Assault and Battery Lawyer

Being charged with assault and battery in Massachusetts is a serious matter that can lead to jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. Even if no physical harm occurred, an arrest for assault can impact your career, reputation, and future opportunities. If you or a loved one has been accused of assault and battery in Needham, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side immediately.

At the Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, we provide aggressive legal defense to fight your charges, protect your rights, and minimize the consequences. Call us today at (857) 229-2442 for a confidential consultation.

Understanding Assault & Battery Charges in Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, assault and battery are two distinct but related offenses under M.G.L. Chapter 265, Section 13A:

• Assault: The attempt to commit a violent act against another person or intentionally placing them in fear of imminent harm. No physical contact is required.
• Battery: The intentional and unlawful physical contact with another person without their consent. This can range from a shove or slap to a more violent attack.

Common Situations Leading to Assault & Battery Charges

Many people charged with assault and battery did not intend to break the law. These charges can arise from:

• Bar fights or altercations in public places
• Road rage incidents
• Domestic disputes or false accusations in heated situations
• Misunderstandings where no harm was intended
• Defending oneself or another person

Even if you believe the situation was a misunderstanding, the state aggressively prosecutes assault and battery charges. You need a strong legal defense to avoid the severe penalties that come with a conviction.

Penalties for Assault & Battery in Massachusetts

The penalties for assault and battery depend on the circumstances of the alleged crime:

1. Simple Assault & Battery (Misdemeanor)
   Penalty: Up to 2.5 years in jail and fines
   Common in: Bar fights, disputes, minor physical altercations
2. Assault & Battery with a Dangerous Weapon (Felony)
   Penalty: Up to 10 years in state prison
   Examples: Striking someone with an object, using a weapon in a fight
3. Aggravated Assault & Battery (Felony)
   Penalty: Up to 5 years in prison
   Applies when:
   - The victim suffers serious bodily injury
   - The victim is pregnant, elderly, or disabled
4. Domestic Assault & Battery
   Penalty: Enhanced penalties, restraining orders, and possible loss of child custody
   Common in: Family or partner disputes, accusations from spouses or domestic partners

Additional Consequences of an Assault & Battery Conviction

Beyond criminal penalties, a conviction can result in:

• A permanent criminal record
• Difficulty securing employment or professional licenses
• Loss of firearm rights
• Immigration consequences for non-citizens

Statute of Limitations for Assault & Battery in Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, the statute of limitations determines how long the state has to file charges:

📌 Misdemeanor Assault & Battery: 6 years from the date of the alleged offense

📌 Felony Assault & Battery: No statute of limitations in certain aggravated cases

Even if an incident occurred years ago, prosecutors may still file charges if evidence surfaces. If you are under investigation, contact our office immediately for legal protection.

Defenses Against Assault & Battery Charges

At the Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, we build a strong defense strategy tailored to your case. Some common defenses include:

• Self-Defense or Defense of Others – If you were protecting yourself or someone else from harm, we can argue justifiable self-defense.
• Lack of Intent or Accidental Contact – If the alleged contact was accidental, this could weaken the prosecution's case.
• False Accusations or Mistaken Identity – Assault and battery charges often result from exaggerations, misunderstandings, or revenge accusations.
• Illegal Search & Seizure or Police Misconduct – If law enforcement violated your rights, we may be able to suppress evidence or dismiss the case.

With our aggressive legal approach, we seek case dismissals, charge reductions, or alternative sentencing options for first-time offenders.

Where Will My Case Be Heard in Needham?

If you are arrested for assault and battery in Needham, your case will be handled at:

Dedham District Court
📍 631 High Street, Dedham, MA 02026
📞 (781) 329-4777

The Needham Police Department is responsible for investigating and making arrests:

Needham Police Department
📍 99 School St, Needham, MA 02492
📞 (781) 455-7570

Knowing where your case will be handled is crucial, as local courts and prosecutors vary in how they handle cases. Our legal team has extensive experience with Dedham District Court and knows how to navigate its system for the best possible outcome.

Why Choose the Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm?

Not all defense attorneys are the same. At the Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, we provide:

• Aggressive Defense Strategies – We challenge weak evidence and procedural mistakes.
• Personalized Attention – Every case is unique, and we develop a strategy tailored to your circumstances.
• Decades of Experience in Massachusetts Criminal Defense – We know how prosecutors build their cases and how to counter them.
• Proven Track Record of Success – Our clients have had charges reduced, cases dismissed, and penalties minimized.

When your future is on the line, you need a skilled lawyer who will fight for you.