Failure to Identify to a Police Officer: Laws and Penalties in Massachusetts

In the state of Massachusetts, individuals are required to cooperate with law enforcement officers in certain situations, including identifying themselves when lawfully asked by a police officer. Failure to comply with this requirement may result in legal consequences. This article aims to shed light on the laws surrounding the failure to identify to a police…

Can Police Officer Demand Identification From Passengers in Motor Vehicle Traffic Violation?

A police officer in Massachusetts can demand identification from passengers in a car that has been pulled over for a traffic violation. According to Massachusetts law, a police officer may request identification from anyone in the vehicle if they have reasonable suspicion to believe that person is involved in criminal activity. The driver of the…

209A and Harassment Orders – Extending a 209A Order in Massachusetts

209A and Harassment Orders are protective orders issued by courts in Massachusetts to protect individuals from domestic abuse, harassment, and stalking. These orders are intended to provide a measure of safety and security for the person seeking protection, and they can include provisions such as restraining the abuser from contacting the protected person, or requiring…

Understanding Residency Requirements for Filing for Divorce in Massachusetts

Getting a divorce is a challenging experience, and the laws surrounding divorce can be overwhelming. One of the most crucial requirements for filing for divorce in Massachusetts is meeting the residency requirements. If you are contemplating a divorce and are unsure of the residency requirements in Massachusetts, read on to learn the essential information on…

Aggravated Assault in Massachusetts: Definition, Types, Penalties, and the Importance of Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney

Assault is a serious crime that involves intentionally causing or attempting to cause harm to another person. When the assault is carried out with a weapon or causes serious bodily injury, it is known as aggravated assault. In Massachusetts, aggravated assault is a felony offense that carries severe penalties, including imprisonment, fines, and a criminal…

How, When, and Why to Establish Paternity for the Child of Unmarried Parents

While marriage gives certain rights and benefits to a couple and their children—favorable tax filing status, hospital visitation rights, and more—the children of unmarried parents are not without legal protection and benefits. Regardless of parents’ marital status, children are entitled to both parents’ financial support. Establishing the paternity of a child born to unmarried parents…

What happens to a business in a divorce?

When a marriage ends, the divorcing couple must decide how to divide the marital assets. Unless otherwise outlined in a pre-or post-nuptial agreement, all assets acquired during the marriage are considered marital assets under Massachusetts divorce law. This includes money as well as personal property, stocks, real estate, debt, and business interests. The division of…

Possession and Distribution of Heroin – Worcester District Court

My client, Mr. Rodriguez, was observed by police handing an individual a small package which was suspected of being heroin. This individual was later apprehended by the police and allegedly swallowed the contents of the package before the police could seize it. Subsequently, Mr. Rodriguez was observed by police getting into a vehicle in Worcester,…