Aggressive Defense of
All Criminal Matters
All Criminal Matters
Criminal Law FAQs
Case-Related Information
What's the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?
Under Massachusetts General Laws c. 274, § 1, a crime punishable by death or imprisonment in state prison is a felony. All other crimes are misdemeanors.
Do I have to speak to the police if I'm being investigated or arrested?
No you do not have to speak to the police if you are being investigated or arrested. More importantly, you should NEVER speak with the police with your lawyer being present with you.
What are my rights after being arrested?
You have the right to remain silent. Embrace that right an say nothing. You have the right to an attorney. Call one immediately. Time matters. Hiring an attorney immediately improves your chances of obtaining a good result. You have the right to know what you are being arrested for. You have the right to a lawyer of your choice. If you cannot afford a lawyer the court will appoint a lawyer to represent you. You have the right to a bail hearing.
Experience and Expertise
How long have you been practicing criminal defense law?
I have been practicing criminal defense law for nearly 40 years.
Do you focus exclusively on criminal law, or do you handle other types of cases as well?
I focus exclusively on criminal law.
What types of criminal cases do you have the most experience with?
I have the most exprience with sex crimes, drug crimes, domestic assault and battery cases, clerk magistrate hearings, illegal gun possession crimes, solicitation of prostitute and human trafficking cases and OUI cases.
How do you stay up to date with changes in criminal law or local court practices?
I read the Massachusetts criminal law advance sheets daily. I attend CLE courses and I am on lists that receive and publish updates on developments in criminal law in Massachusetts and other states.
Fees & Communication
How do you charge for your services: hourly or flat fee?
My office charges a flat fee.
What is included in your legal fees, and are there any additional costs I should be aware of (e.g., filing fees, expert witnesses, court costs)?
There can be additional costs associated with my representation of people charged with crimes. My clients are responsible for the cost of experts which include private investigators, DNA experts, forsensic psychologists, crime scene reconstructionists, accident reconstructionists, and firearms experts to name a few.
Do you offer free consultations or charge for the initial meeting?
I offer a free telephone or Zoom consultation for the intitial meeting.
How will you keep me informed about the progress of my case or matter?
I will immediately email you with any new developments in your case. Depending on the urgency of the matter I may call or text you.
Who will be my main point of contact at your firm? Will I work directly with you or with a team?
I am always the main point of contact unless my client prefers otherwise.
How quickly do you respond to emails, phone calls, or messages?
I typically respond to emails, phone calls and messages the same day that I receive them.
What's the best way to communicate with you: email, phone, client portal, or in-person meetings?
I tell all clients that email is the best way to ensure that I will get your message. I receive over 100 calls and texts a day. I go through my email inbox daily to make sure my client's questions are answered.
Additional FAQs
Can you help with appeals or post-conviction relief?
Yes. We handle appeals and post-conviction relief. Post-conviction relief can involve filing motions for a new trial for ineffective assistance of counsel or for newly discovered evidence or we can file motions to vacate a guilty plea.
Location
