Resisting Arrest – Wellesley College

Defending Wellesley College Students Accused of Resisting Arrest in Dedham District Court and Campus Disciplinary Proceedings

A resisting arrest charge can escalate quickly and carry serious consequences for Wellesley College students. What may begin as a tense interaction with police can result in criminal prosecution, college discipline, and long-term damage to your academic and professional future.

Me and my team here at The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett defend Wellesley College students facing resisting arrest allegations. I represent students in Dedham District Court while also working to protect them from disciplinary sanctions imposed by the college, which often move forward regardless of the criminal outcome.

Wellesley, Massachusetts Office
572 Washington Street, Wellesley, MA 02482
Phone: 857.229.2442

Understanding Resisting Arrest Charges in Massachusetts

Under Massachusetts law, resisting arrest occurs when a person knowingly prevents or attempts to prevent a police officer, acting under official authority, from making an arrest. This may involve physical force, threats, or actions that create a substantial risk of injury.

A key issue in these cases is that even if an arrest is later challenged, a resisting arrest charge may still proceed if the officer was acting under color of authority and did not use excessive force. Criminal cases and college disciplinary proceedings are separate, but both can move forward at the same time.

Common Scenarios Involving Wellesley College Students

I frequently defend Wellesley students accused of resisting arrest in situations such as:

Campus or off-campus party incidents
Alcohol-related encounters with police
Misunderstandings during traffic stops
Emotional or chaotic situations involving multiple officers
Arrests connected to other alleged offenses

Many of these cases involve disputed facts, exaggerated police reports, or conduct that does not meet the legal definition of resisting arrest.

Legal Consequences of Resisting Arrest

Resisting arrest is classified as a misdemeanor in Massachusetts, but the penalties can still be severe.

Possible consequences include:

Up to 2.5 years in a jail or house of correction
Fines of up to $500
Probation and court-ordered conditions
A permanent criminal record
Barriers to employment, graduate school, and professional licensing

All criminal cases involving Wellesley College students are handled at:
Dedham District Court
631 High Street, Dedham, MA 02026

Wellesley College Disciplinary Consequences

Wellesley College may pursue its own disciplinary process for conduct involving law enforcement, regardless of whether criminal charges are dismissed or reduced.

Potential college sanctions include:

Disciplinary probation
Suspension or expulsion
Loss of housing privileges
Mandatory counseling or educational programs
Permanent notations on your academic record

The college uses a lower standard of proof than criminal court, making early legal intervention critical.

Frequently Asked Questions

What constitutes resisting arrest under Massachusetts law?
Knowingly using force, threats, or risky conduct to prevent an officer from making an arrest while acting under official authority.

How does Wellesley College handle these incidents?
The college conducts its own investigation and may impose discipline independent of the criminal case.

What should I do if I am accused?
Do not make statements to police or college officials without legal guidance. Early defense strategy matters.

Defense Strategies for Resisting Arrest Charges

Every case is different. Depending on the facts, I may:

Challenge whether the conduct legally qualifies as resisting arrest
Question the officer's version of events
Examine whether excessive force was used
Negotiate reduced charges or alternative resolutions
Work to limit or prevent college disciplinary sanctions

My focus is protecting both your criminal record and your academic standing.

Why Wellesley College Students Choose The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett

Experience defending students in misdemeanor criminal cases
Familiarity with Dedham District Court procedures
Strategic coordination between criminal defense and campus discipline
Focus on protecting education, reputation, and future opportunities

Protect Your Future – Contact Us Today

If you are a Wellesley College student facing a resisting arrest charge, do not wait to get legal help.

The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett
572 Washington Street, Wellesley, MA 02482
Phone: 857.229.2442

Confidential consultations available.

Resisting Arrest Charges Defense for Wellesley College Students - KB Law