Assault and Battery Charges – Regis College
Defending Regis College Students Accused of Assault and Battery
Dedham District Court & College Disciplinary Hearings
An assault and battery charge in Massachusetts is a serious allegation that can follow a student long after graduation. For Regis College students, these cases often involve two separate battles at once: criminal prosecution in Dedham District Court and disciplinary action by the college.
Me and my team here at The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett represent Regis College students facing assault and battery charges. Our focus is protecting your rights, your education, and your future while minimizing the long-term consequences of these accusations.
Understanding Assault and Battery Charges in Massachusetts
Assault and battery charges are governed by Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 265, Section 13A. While often grouped together, assault and battery can involve different legal theories.
Assault
An attempt or threat to cause physical harm that places another person in reasonable fear of an imminent attack.
Battery
The intentional and unjustified physical touching of another person, even if no serious injury occurs.
Common scenarios involving college students include disputes between classmates, altercations at social gatherings, athletic-related incidents, or arguments that escalate into physical contact.
Criminal Charges vs. College Discipline
Criminal cases are handled in court and focus on whether the Commonwealth can prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. College disciplinary proceedings follow a much lower standard and can move quickly, often before the criminal case is resolved.
Even if charges are dismissed or reduced in court, Regis College may still impose sanctions that affect enrollment, housing, and academic standing.
Legal Consequences of Assault and Battery
The penalties for assault and battery depend on the specific charge and alleged conduct.
Simple Assault and Battery
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Misdemeanor offense
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Up to 2.5 years in the house of correction
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Fines of up to $1,000
Aggravated Assault and Battery
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Felony offense
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Up to 5 years in state prison
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Fines of up to $5,000
Assault and Battery on a Public Employee
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Felony offense
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Mandatory minimum sentence of 90 days in jail
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Fines of up to $5,000
Aggravating factors such as serious bodily injury, use of a weapon, or the status of the alleged victim can significantly increase exposure to jail or prison time.
All criminal cases for Regis College students are handled at:
Dedham District Court
631 High Street
Dedham, MA 02026
Regis College Policies and Disciplinary Action
Regis College enforces strict standards of conduct related to violence and physical altercations. Disciplinary proceedings are separate from criminal court and may result in sanctions regardless of the legal outcome.
Possible disciplinary penalties include:
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Disciplinary probation
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Suspension
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Expulsion
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Mandatory counseling or educational programs
Relevant policy information can be found in the Regis College Student Handbook:
https://www.regiscollege.edu/studenthandbook
Frequently Asked Questions
What constitutes assault and battery under Massachusetts law?
Assault involves an attempt or threat to cause harm, while battery involves actual physical contact without legal justification or consent.
How does Regis College handle assault allegations?
The college conducts its own investigation and may impose discipline even if the criminal case is dismissed or reduced.
What should I do if I am accused?
Do not speak with police or college officials until you have spoken with an experienced criminal defense attorney.
Defense Strategies for Assault and Battery Charges
Me and my team here at The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett build aggressive and strategic defenses tailored to each case, including:
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Challenging witness credibility and conflicting statements
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Examining self-defense or defense of others
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Identifying lack of intent or accidental contact
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Negotiating charge reductions or alternative resolutions
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Coordinating criminal defense with college disciplinary strategy
Our goal is to protect your freedom while minimizing damage to your academic record and future opportunities.
Why Choose The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett
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Extensive experience defending college students accused of violent offenses
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Deep knowledge of Dedham District Court procedures
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Strategic handling of both criminal cases and campus discipline
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Focused on protecting education, reputation, and long-term goals
When your education and future are at risk, experience and strategy matter.
Protect Your Future – Contact Us Today
The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett
Wellesley Office
572 Washington Street
Wellesley, MA 02482
Phone: 857.229.2442
Cranston Office
1000 Chapel View Blvd
Cranston, RI 02920
Phone: 401.425.4059
Website: https://www.krbarrettlaw.com
We offer confidential consultations for Regis College students facing assault and battery charges and are prepared to act quickly to protect your rights, your education, and your future.
