Wellesley College Student Facing Domestic Violence Charges? Protect Your Future β Contact an Experienced Defense Attorney Today
A domestic violence accusation can turn your life upside down. As a Wellesley College student, you're not just facing legal challenges in Dedham District Court but also potential disciplinary actions that could jeopardize your academic career and future opportunities.
At Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, we specialize in defending Wellesley students accused of domestic violence, offering strategic representation in both criminal court and college disciplinary hearings.
π Call (857) 229-2442 now for a free, confidential consultation with a skilled defense attorney.
What Is Domestic Violence Under Massachusetts Law?
In Massachusetts, domestic violence is governed by M.G.L. Chapter 209A (abuse prevention orders) and Chapter 265 Β§ 13M (assault and battery on a family or household member). Key elements include:
πΉ Protective Orders: Courts may issue restraining orders prohibiting contact with the alleged victim.
πΉ Criminal Charges: Assault or threats can lead to misdemeanor or felony charges.
πΉ Mandatory Arrests: Police may arrest without a warrant if domestic violence is suspected.
Common scenarios involving Wellesley students:
π Conflicts in romantic relationships escalating to physical or verbal altercations.
π Roommate disputes leading to accusations of abuse or harassment.
π± Digital harassment, such as threatening messages or cyberstalking via social media.
What Are the Legal Consequences for Students?
A domestic violence conviction can result in:
βοΈ Up to 2.5 years in jail for misdemeanor charges or longer for felonies.
πΈ Fines and court-ordered programs like counseling.
π« Restraining orders impacting housing, campus access, and daily life.
ποΈ A permanent criminal record affecting job and graduate school prospects.
Cases are heard at:
Dedham District Court
π 631 High Street, Dedham, MA 02026
Can Wellesley College Discipline Me for Domestic Violence?
Yes. Wellesley College enforces its Honor Code and policies outlined in the Student Handbook, which address interpersonal misconduct, including domestic violence. These proceedings are separate from criminal cases, meaning you could face sanctions even if charges are dismissed.
Potential disciplinary outcomes include:
π€ Suspension or expulsion.
ποΈ Removal from campus housing.
π Disciplinary probation.
π§ Mandatory counseling or educational programs.
Learn more about Wellesley's policies:
π Honor Code
π Student Handbook
What Should Parents Know?
Will This Affect My Child's Future?
Yes. Domestic violence charges can impact:
π§ββοΈ Career paths in fields like education, law, or healthcare.
π Graduate school applications.
π Campus housing and study abroad eligibility.
π Academic standing and extracurricular participation.
Does My Child Need a Lawyer?
Absolutely. College staff cannot represent students in court or disciplinary hearings. Our attorneys provide comprehensive defense in both arenas.
Can This Be Kept Off Their Record?
In many cases, yes. Options for first-time offenders include:
π Pretrial diversion programs.
π Continuance Without a Finding (CWOF).
π Case dismissal with later record sealing.
What Are the Immediate Consequences?
Your child may face:
π« Restraining orders affecting contact with others or campus access.
β Restrictions on movement or campus event attendance.
π Disruptions to class schedules or housing arrangements.
Our Defense Strategies
Our experienced legal team employs tailored strategies, such as:
π Challenging the credibility of allegations by identifying inconsistencies.
π‘οΈ Presenting evidence of self-defense where applicable.
π€ Negotiating alternative resolutions, like counseling or mediation, to avoid formal charges.
Why Wellesley Students Choose Marin, Barrett, and Murphy
π― Specialized expertise in defending college students.
π In-depth knowledge of Dedham District Court and Wellesley College's disciplinary processes.
π Conveniently located near Wellesley College.
π€ Dedicated support for students and their families throughout the legal and disciplinary process.
Contact Us Today for a Free, Confidential Case Review
Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm
π 572 Washington Street, Suite 21, Wellesley, MA 02482
π (857) 229-2442
We're available 24/7 to assist with urgent cases. If you or your child is facing domestic violence charges, don't waitβcall now for expert legal guidance.
π¨ URGENT: Facing domestic violence charges as a Wellesley student? Call now for a free consultation to protect your future.