Massachusetts Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer
Charges of domestic violence sometimes have more to do with the abuse of the legal system rather than the abuse of another person. By accusing a spouse or domestic partner of domestic violence on a Friday night, a vengeful person can ensure that his or her spouse will spend the weekend in jail, even if no actual physical abuse occurred.
I am Judith A. Wayne, a criminal defense attorney with offices in Swampscott and Malden. As a former assistant district attorney for Middlesex County, I understand how local police handle domestic violence cases. Once 911 has been called, it is easier for the police to arrest someone accused of domestic violence than it is to truly investigate the circumstances leading to that call.
Massachusetts' domestic violence laws cover anyone who has been harmed or who fears harm from someone in a domestic relationship, whether he or she is a husband, wife, boyfriend, girlfriend or same-sex partner. While many allegations of domestic violence are valid, people who are going through an acrimonious divorce or breakup can misuse the charge.
If you have been accused of domestic violence, you should contact a lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights. I defend clients who have been accused of domestic violence throughout the Boston North Shore and metro areas in Massachusetts.
209A restraining orders
Anyone accused of domestic violence in Massachusetts faces what is known as a 209A restraining order. I have represented both the party obtaining a restraining order and the party defending against the imposition of an order.
Since federal firearms laws provide that an individual who has been found to have committed domestic violence may not possess a firearm, a domestic violence accusation can be a career-ending charge for a police officer or security professional. Over the years, I have represented numerous police officers who have been accused of domestic violence crimes.
Free attorney consultation
To discuss your domestic violence or spousal abuse case with an experienced lawyer, contact me, attorney Judith A. Wayne, at the Swampscott or Malden location of the Law Offices of Judith A. Wayne and Associates. Je parle Francais. Se habla español.
