Massachusetts Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer

A domestic violence allegation in Massachusetts can start with a single phone call to the police. What feels like a private argument at home can quickly lead to an arrest, a restraining order, and charges that put your freedom and reputation at risk.

Once the police are involved, things move fast. Officers are required to arrest if they believe probable cause exists, and prosecutors may proceed even if the other person wishes to walk away. Before you’ve had the chance to explain your side, you’re already facing court dates and restrictions that reach into every part of your life.

Attorney Anthony R. Riccio has handled these cases from both sides of the courtroom. As a former prosecutor and now a Massachusetts domestic violence lawyer, he leverages his trial experience to question evidence, challenge restraining orders, and defend clients in courts throughout Lowell, Boston, Quincy, and Attleboro.

Contact Riccio Law for a confidential consultation.

Understanding Domestic Violence Charges

In Massachusetts, domestic violence isn’t a separate crime but a category of offenses that happen between family or household members. That can include spouses, people who live together, relatives, co-parents, or those in a dating relationship.

The most common charge is domestic assault and battery, which courts treat more seriously than general assault. Even minor allegations often bring strict bail conditions, no-contact orders, and housing restrictions.

Prosecutors may also proceed with cases even if the alleged victim changes their account of the events. That means defending against domestic violence accusations often requires challenging the evidence itself, not relying on whether the other person wants to cooperate.

Why Domestic Violence Cases Are Different in Massachusetts

Domestic violence charges bring added legal and personal consequences that go far beyond standard criminal cases. A few of the most important differences include:

• Restraining Orders (209A Orders): Judges can restrict contact, remove you from your home, and affect custody. Violations create new criminal charges.
• No-Contact Conditions: Courts often impose strict stay-away rules at arraignment, limiting where you live or who you can see.
• Public Record Exposure: Even without a conviction, domestic charges and restraining orders may appear on CORI checks, potentially affecting job opportunities, housing, and licensing.
• Immigration and Family Court: For non-citizens, convictions can result in deportation. Allegations can also weigh heavily in divorce or custody disputes.

These added consequences mean a domestic violence charge is rarely limited to the criminal courtroom. It often affects family life, work, and long-term opportunities, making a strong defense essential from the start.

Penalties and Collateral Consequences

Massachusetts domestic violence convictions carry serious consequences beyond the courtroom:

Penalties extend far beyond fines or jail. Working with a Massachusetts criminal defense lawyer early can help reduce the long-term impact.

Defenses Against Domestic Violence Charges

Domestic violence cases often come down to more than just the accusation itself. The strongest defenses focus on the facts, the evidence, and whether the Commonwealth can actually meet its burden of proof.

• Self-Defense or Defense of Others – Force may be lawful if it was necessary to protect yourself or someone else, as long as it was reasonable and proportionate.
• False or Exaggerated Allegations – In family or relationship disputes, accusations are sometimes used out of anger, fear, or to gain an advantage in custody or divorce cases.
• Credibility Issues – Conflicting witness statements, inconsistencies in police reports, or testimony that doesn’t match physical evidence can weaken the prosecution’s case.
• Restraining Order Violations – Prosecutors must prove the violation was intentional. In some cases, accidental or unavoidable contact does not meet the legal standard for guilt.

An experienced Massachusetts domestic violence lawyer knows how to thoroughly examine each aspect of the case and advocate for the best possible outcome.

Restraining Orders (209A Orders) in Massachusetts

In domestic violence cases, courts often issue 209A abuse prevention orders. These orders can be granted quickly and carry serious consequences for the accused.

What You Need to Know

• Types of Orders: Emergency orders (granted through police), temporary orders (lasting up to 10 days), and long-term orders (up to a year or more).
• Restrictions Imposed: No-contact rules, removal from the home, custody or visitation limits, and firearm bans.
• Penalties for Violations: Treated as a separate crime, often resulting in immediate arrest, fines, or jail time even before the main case is resolved.

A 209A order can change where you live, how you parent, and what rights you keep. An attorney can help protect you on all fronts.

Why Clients Trust Riccio Law

Not all defense lawyers approach domestic violence cases the same way. These cases move quickly, often involve restraining orders, and can affect family court, immigration, and employment simultaneously. That’s why clients look for an attorney with proven strengths that go beyond the basics.

Here’s what sets Riccio Law apart:

• Prosecutorial perspective – Years spent building these cases for the Commonwealth now fuel strategies to dismantle them.
• Courtroom-tested defense – Experience handling severe domestic violence trials, not just paperwork or negotiations.
• Reputation for preparation – Known for digging into police reports, witness statements, and 209A hearings with precision.
• Local familiarity – Regular presence in Lowell, Boston, Quincy, and Attleboro courts, where outcomes often turn on local practice.
• Recognized in 2025 – Selected to the Super Lawyers Rising Stars list for consecutive years.

Clients choose Riccio Law because they want a defense built on experience, preparation, and results that protect more than just the immediate charge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can domestic violence charges be dropped if the accuser changes their mind?

No. Prosecutors often continue cases even if victims recant. A domestic violence lawyer can challenge weak evidence for dismissal.

What happens at a restraining order (209A) hearing in Massachusetts?

A judge reviews both sides before extending or ending the order. A restraining order lawyer in Massachusetts can protect your rights.

How do domestic violence charges affect child custody in Massachusetts?

Pending charges or convictions may impact custody and visitation. A Massachusetts domestic violence lawyer can address both criminal and family court issues.

Will a domestic violence charge stay on my CORI record?

Yes. Domestic charges and restraining orders can appear on CORI checks. Dismissals or sealing may reduce long-term exposure.

Take the Next Step

Domestic violence and restraining order cases can affect your home, your work, and your family. The sooner you have a defense in place, the better your chances of limiting the impact.

At Riccio Law, Attorney Anthony Riccio takes a hands-on approach. Each case is reviewed personally, with strategies built around the details that matter most. Clients know they will be guided through the process and defended with preparation at every stage.

If you are facing charges or dealing with a 209A order, contact Riccio Law today for a confidential consultation. Phones are answered 24/7.

Disclaimer: Outcomes depend on the facts of each case. Past results do not guarantee future results. This content is informational only and does not create an attorney-client relationship.