Assault and Battery – Wellesley College
Defending Wellesley College Students Facing Assault and Battery Charges – Dedham District Court & College Disciplinary Hearings
An assault and battery charge can seriously disrupt a Wellesley College student's education and future. Even a single incident can result in criminal prosecution, restraining orders, and disciplinary action by the college that affects housing, enrollment, and academic standing.
Me and my team here at The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett represent Wellesley College students charged with assault and battery in Dedham District Court, while also guiding them through the college's internal disciplinary process. Our focus is on protecting your rights, your record, and your future.
Wellesley, Massachusetts Office
572 Washington Street, Wellesley, MA 02482
Phone: 857.229.2442
Massachusetts Assault and Battery Laws
Under Massachusetts law, assault and battery is governed by M.G.L. c. 265 § 13A. The law distinguishes between two related offenses:
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Assault: An attempt or threat to cause physical harm that places another person in reasonable fear of immediate injury
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Assault and Battery: The intentional and unjustified touching or use of force against another person, even if no serious injury occurs
Charges may be classified as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the circumstances, including injury, the alleged victim, or whether a dangerous weapon was involved.
Common Student Scenarios
I frequently defend Wellesley College students accused of assault and battery in situations such as:
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Physical altercations during campus events or social gatherings
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Disputes between roommates or classmates that escalate
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Arguments involving alcohol where minor contact is exaggerated
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Misunderstandings or mutual confrontations reported as one-sided
Many of these cases involve conflicting accounts and heightened emotions.
Criminal Penalties for Assault and Battery
Potential penalties depend on the nature of the charge:
Misdemeanor Assault and Battery
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Up to 2½ years in the House of Correction
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Fines up to $1,000
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Probation, counseling, or anger management conditions
Felony Assault and Battery (Aggravated)
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Up to 5 years in state prison
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Higher fines
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Permanent felony record
All assault and battery cases involving Wellesley College students are handled in:
Dedham District Court
631 High Street, Dedham, MA 02026
Wellesley College Policies and Disciplinary Action
Wellesley College enforces strict standards under its Honor Code and Code of Conduct. Allegations involving physical contact or violence may trigger an internal investigation regardless of the court case.
Disciplinary consequences may include:
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Disciplinary probation
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Housing removal or campus restrictions
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Suspension or expulsion
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Mandatory counseling or educational programs
College discipline may proceed even if criminal charges are reduced or dismissed.
Frequently Asked Questions – Assault and Battery Charges
Can I face college discipline without a criminal conviction?
Yes. Wellesley conducts its own investigation using a lower burden of proof than criminal court.
What does the college consider assault and battery?
Any intentional physical contact that causes harm or fear of harm, including pushing, shoving, restraining, or fighting.
How can this affect my academic standing?
Sanctions may impact housing, enrollment, leadership positions, and future academic opportunities.
Defense Strategies in Student Assault Cases
Every case is different, but common defense strategies include:
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Challenging the credibility and consistency of the allegations
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Demonstrating self-defense or mutual confrontation
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Showing lack of intent or accidental contact
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Highlighting witness testimony or video evidence
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Pursuing diversion or alternative resolutions for first-time offenders
Early legal intervention is critical in assault and battery cases.
Why Wellesley College Students Choose The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett
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Extensive experience defending assault and battery charges in Massachusetts
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Familiarity with Dedham District Court judges and procedures
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Strategic coordination between criminal defense and college discipline
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Student-focused advocacy aimed at avoiding convictions and expulsion
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Commitment to protecting long-term academic and career goals
Protect Your Education and Your Future
If you are a Wellesley College student facing an assault or assault and battery charge, speak with a lawyer immediately.
The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett
572 Washington Street, Wellesley, MA 02482
Phone: 857.229.2442
Confidential consultations available.
