When police interact with you, they must have a legal reason. In Massachusetts, the rules change depending on what the police are doing. To arrest you or thoroughly search your property, they usually need "probable cause." If they act without it, their case against...
If police arrest you for a drug crime in Massachusetts, they take your belongings, read your rights and detain you. You might face charges for possession, distribution or trafficking. The charges depend on the drug type, amount and other details like location or the...
Sending a text message might feel less serious than speaking face to face, but the law often treats digital communication the same as spoken words. Threats made through text can lead to assault charges, depending on what someone writes and how the other person reacts....
Prescription drug crimes are a serious issue in Massachusetts, especially with the growing opioid crisis. It's important to understand the most common prescription drug offenses to avoid legal trouble and stay informed about the laws. Possession of prescription drugs...
While the state may allow recreational marijuana, it is still important to understand the rules and the consequences of misuse. It is easy to misjudge how much you can legally possess, and exceeding that limit can quickly turn a simple mistake into a criminal charge....
When you face criminal charges, the idea of going to trial can be overwhelming. Most cases end with a plea bargain, but many people are oblivious to the process. Knowing the basics of plea bargaining empowers you to make better decisions. A plea bargain is an...
A pretext stop occurs when law enforcement officers pull over a driver for a minor traffic violation as a way to investigate an unrelated suspicion of criminal activity. In these situations, a traffic stop is merely a pretext, or excuse, for officers to look for...
Facing false domestic violence allegations can be overwhelming and stressful. These claims can have serious repercussions on your personal and professional life. Understanding the nature of domestic violence and the potential penalty of a conviction is essential in...
A wrongful accusation of a violent crime is a serious matter that can affect many aspects of your life. Whether the allegation involves assault, battery or another offense, it is important to act quickly and carefully. The following steps may help you defend yourself...
Getting swept up in the criminal justice system is a frightening experience. Most people don't know what to expect or how to respond when they face accusations of breaking the law. It is quite common for individuals to make mistakes because they want to get the...
