Steven J. Topazio - Attorney At Law

Domestic Violence

Protecting Your Rights in Domestic Violence Cases

Massachusetts domestic violence cases feature a major difference from other misdemeanor assault crimes: the police must make an arrest if they find any probable cause to believe that the crime was actually committed. If you have been arrested for domestic assault or any other family violence charge, contact the Boston law firm of Steven J. Topazio for a free consultation about your legal options.

What distinguishes domestic violence from other assault crimes is the relationship between the alleged perpetrator and the victim. While there is no doubt that spousal abuse and other instances of violence between family members and intimate partners is a serious social problem, it is equally clear that the laws that criminalize domestic violence can be misused to punish people who really don't belong in the criminal justice system.

For example, people involved in divorce or child custody cases will often be tempted to accuse the other spouse or parent of domestic violence in order to get a tactical advantage in family court. A heated argument can be exaggerated into a violent one — a push can turn into a blow, a slap into a punch, or a misdemeanor shove into a wall can be charged as felony assault with a dangerous weapon.

At the law firm of Steven J. Topazio, Attorney at Law, we use our experience with a wide range of domestic violence situations to help return common sense to the process. We can use a little-known legal tool known as "accord and satisfaction" to help avoid criminal consequences in cases where the complaining witness had no idea that calling the police could generate so much trouble. We can also help people accused of violating domestic violence restraining orders or probation restrictions against contact with particular individuals.

Comprehensive Investigation and Case-Building

For more information about our experience with the defense of felony and misdemeanor domestic violence cases in the courts of Massachusetts, contact Boston Criminal Defense lawyer Steven J. Topazio for a free consultation.