Criminal Defense in Massachusetts

Experienced defense for misdemeanor and felony charges in District and Superior Court throughout Massachusetts.

Schedule a Consultation View All Practice Areas

Criminal Defense

Defending Your Rights in Massachusetts Courts

Richard Davidson has been defending clients in Massachusetts courts since 1989. As a qualified Bar Advocate, he developed hands-on experience in both District and Superior Court proceedings from the very start of his career.

He served with the Middlesex County Bar Advocates, Inc. and Middlesex Defense Attorneys, Inc., building a thorough understanding of how local courts operate, how prosecutors approach cases, and what it takes to mount a successful defense.

Today, Davidson Law Office represents individuals facing misdemeanor and felony charges. When your future is on the line, you deserve an attorney who truly knows these courts.

Richard Davidson served as a Bar Advocate with the Committee for Public Counsel Services, defending indigent clients in misdemeanor and felony cases across Middlesex County courts.

Criminal Cases We Handle

Misdemeanor Charges

Misdemeanor offenses in Massachusetts can carry penalties up to 2.5 years in a house of correction. We defend charges including assault and battery, disorderly conduct, restraining order violations, and minor in possession.

Felony Charges

Felony charges carry potential state prison sentences and long-term consequences. We represent clients in Superior Court on charges including assault, drug offenses, theft and larceny, and other serious criminal matters.

OUI / DUI Defense

Operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs is one of the most common criminal charges in Massachusetts. We challenge the stop, field sobriety tests, breathalyzer results, and other evidence used against you.

Drug Offenses

From simple possession to possession with intent to distribute and trafficking charges, drug offenses carry serious penalties. We examine the circumstances of the search and seizure to build the strongest possible defense.

Assault and Battery

Whether you face simple assault, assault and battery, or aggravated assault charges, we scrutinize witness statements, physical evidence, and the underlying circumstances to build an effective defense on your behalf.

Restraining Order Violations

Civil and criminal violations of 209A protective orders carry serious consequences. We represent clients accused of violating restraining orders in Massachusetts District Courts, protecting your rights throughout the process.

How We Handle Your Defense

Every criminal case is different, but every client deserves the same careful, thorough approach. Here is how Davidson Law Office works through your defense from the first call to final resolution.

Case Review

We review the charges, the evidence, and the circumstances of your arrest in detail. Understanding every aspect of your case is the foundation of an effective defense.

Defense Strategy

We build a defense strategy tailored to your specific situation. No two cases are the same, and your defense should reflect the unique facts and circumstances you face.

Court Appearances

We appear with you at arraignment, pre-trial hearings, motions hearings, and trial. You will never walk into a Massachusetts courtroom alone when Davidson Law Office represents you.

Resolution

We fight for the best possible outcome in every case, whether that means a dismissal, a reduction of charges, a negotiated resolution, or an acquittal after trial.

From Bedford to courts across Middlesex, Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk, and Worcester Counties, we are with you every step of the way.

Why Choose Davidson Law Office for Criminal Defense

Practicing Since 1989

Richard Davidson has been defending Massachusetts clients in District and Superior Court since 1989, giving him a deep understanding of local courts and how prosecutors build their cases.

Bar Advocate Experience

Mr. Davidson qualified as a Bar Advocate and served with Middlesex County Bar Advocates, Inc. and Middlesex Defense Attorneys, Inc.

Misdemeanor and Felony Defense

We represent clients charged with misdemeanors and felonies in both District and Superior Courts throughout Massachusetts, including Middlesex, Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk, and Worcester Counties.

Direct Attorney Representation

When you hire Davidson Law Office, you work directly with Richard Davidson. No junior associates, no hand-offs. Your case receives experienced personal attention from start to finish.

37+

Years Defending Massachusetts Clients

Since 1989, Richard A. Davidson, Jr. has defended clients in misdemeanor and felony cases in District and Superior Courts throughout Massachusetts.

Get a Consultation

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I am arrested in Massachusetts?

Stay calm and do not answer questions without an attorney present. You have the right to remain silent - invoke it clearly by saying you are invoking your right to remain silent and want an attorney. Do not resist or argue with officers. Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. The steps you take immediately after an arrest can have a significant impact on your case.

What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, misdemeanor offenses carry potential penalties of up to 2.5 years in a house of correction and are typically heard in District Court. Felony offenses are more serious and carry potential state prison sentences exceeding 2.5 years. Serious felonies are heard in Superior Court. Both categories can have lasting consequences on your record, employment, and civil rights, making qualified legal representation essential.

Can criminal charges be dismissed in Massachusetts?

Yes. Charges can be dismissed at various stages, including at arraignment, during pre-trial proceedings, or during trial. Grounds for dismissal include insufficient evidence, procedural errors by law enforcement, violations of your constitutional rights during the stop or arrest, and problems with how evidence was obtained. An experienced attorney will review every aspect of your case to identify grounds for dismissal or reduction of charges.

What is a clerk magistrate hearing?

A clerk magistrate hearing, also called a show cause hearing, is a preliminary proceeding in Massachusetts District Court where a magistrate reviews the application for a criminal complaint and decides whether probable cause exists to issue it. If you receive notice of a clerk's hearing, it is important to have legal representation. In many cases, a successful hearing can prevent a formal criminal complaint from being issued at all.

Will a criminal conviction appear on my record permanently?

Not necessarily. Massachusetts law allows many convictions to be sealed after specified waiting periods - three years for misdemeanors and seven years for felonies. A sealed record is not publicly accessible, though it may still be visible to certain government agencies. Expungement is more limited under Massachusetts law but is available in certain circumstances. We can advise you on record sealing options as part of your case.

Facing Criminal Charges? Get Experienced Legal Help Now.

Every moment counts when you are facing criminal charges in Massachusetts. The sooner you have experienced legal counsel, the better your options. Richard Davidson has been protecting the rights of Massachusetts residents in District and Superior Courts for more than 37 years. Call our Bedford office today or schedule a consultation online.

Contact Davidson Law Explore Other Practice Areas