Assault & Battery Defense Attorney in Massachusetts

A fight, a misunderstanding, or even a false accusation can lead to serious assault charges. We defend people charged with assault, battery, and related offenses in New Bedford, Brockton, Fall River, Mashpee & courts across Southeastern Massachusetts.

Understanding the Charges

Assault & Battery Are Often Charged Together


In Massachusetts, assault means an attempt or threat to cause harm. Battery means actual, unwanted physical contact. You can be charged with


  • Assault – Attempted or threatened harm without contact
  • Assault & Battery (A&B) – Physical contact, even if minor
  • Domestic Assault & Battery – Alleged violence involving family or partners
  • A&B with a Dangerous Weapon – Object involved, even a shoe or phone
  • Aggravated A&B – Serious injury or certain protected victims (pregnant person, elderly, police)

These charges carry real consequences—including possible jail time—even if no one was seriously hurt.

Common Scenarios We See

  • Bar fights or altercations outside of restaurants

  • Arguments at home that escalate

  • Self-defense situations misunderstood by police
  • False accusations during custody disputes or breakups

  • Unclear video or witness statements

We investigate your side, challenge weak evidence, and fight to keep your record clean.

How We Build Your Defense

Strategy Starts with Listening to You

Every case is different, but we’ll always look at:

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Whether you acted in self-defense
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Whether the other person was the aggressor
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Whether there were injuries or conflicting accounts
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Whether the police followed proper procedure
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Whether the alleged victim wants to press charges

We aim for dismissals, pretrial resolutions, or reduced charges when possible. If trial becomes necessary, we’re ready.

Local Courts We Appear In

 We handle assault & battery charges in:



  • New Bedford, Fall River, Wareham & Falmouth

  • Brockton, Taunton, Plymouth & Barnstable

  • Norfolk & Suffolk County district courts

We know how different courts handle these charges—and how to position your case for the best possible outcome.


Common Questions

FAQs About Assault Charges in Massachusetts

  • Is assault & battery a felony?

    Simple assault & battery is a misdemeanor. Aggravated or domestic charges can be felonies depending on the circumstances.

  • Can I go to jail for a first-time offense?

    Possibly, but many first-time cases result in probation, pretrial diversion, or dismissal—especially with strong legal defense.

  • What if the other person doesn't want to press charges?

    The state can still proceed, but it may weaken the case. We can sometimes get the case dropped if the alleged victim won't testify.

  • Can I get the charge off my record?

    If the case is dismissed or resolved through a pretrial program, you may be eligible for sealing. We can help with that process.

  • What counts as a “dangerous weapon”?

    Anything used to cause harm—even a shoe, bottle, or phone—can count if the prosecutor claims it was used aggressively.

Arrested or Accused? Let’s Talk Before Court.

We’ll Explain the Process & Start Building Your Defense

You don’t have to figure this out alone. We’ll walk you through what to expect and how we can help you move forward.


Call: 774-205-1984
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