• March 3, 2025 at 11:29 pm by Steven Topazio

Being arrested can be a frightening and overwhelming experience. Whether you are facing a minor charge or a serious felony, knowing your rights and the proper steps to take can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. As a seasoned Massachusetts criminal defense attorney, I want to provide you with crucial information on what to do if you find yourself under arrest. Stay Calm and Composed Being arrested is stressful, but it’s read More

• February 19, 2025 at 8:07 pm by Steven Topazio

When facing drug-related charges in Massachusetts, it is crucial to understand the difference between drug possession and drug distribution. The severity of penalties varies significantly between these charges, and knowing your legal rights can make a substantial difference in your case. As an experienced Massachusetts criminal defense attorney, I want to provide clarity on these distinctions and the potential legal consequences you may face. What is Drug Possession? Drug possession in Massachusetts refers to having read More

• February 13, 2025 at 7:17 pm by Steven Topazio

A criminal record can create significant barriers to employment, housing, education, and even personal relationships. In Massachusetts, however, you may have the opportunity to seal your criminal records and move forward without the burden of past mistakes. As an experienced criminal defense attorney, I want to highlight the importance of sealing criminal records and how it can help you achieve a fresh start. What Does It Mean to Seal a Criminal Record? Sealing criminal records read More

• January 31, 2025 at 7:18 pm by Steven Topazio

In Massachusetts, trafficking in drugs (or also commonly referred to as drug trafficking) refers to the illegal possession, distribution, or manufacture of large quantities of controlled substances, such as heroin, cocaine, fentanyl, marijuana, and prescription opioids, with the intent to sell. Drug trafficking is considered a serious offense, distinct from simple possession or smaller-scale drug crimes, due to the quantity of drugs involved. Massachusetts law sets specific thresholds for the amount of a controlled substance read More

• January 15, 2025 at 7:30 pm by Steven Topazio

A magistrate hearing in Massachusetts, also known as a show cause hearing, is a preliminary court proceeding held to determine whether there is probable cause to issue a criminal complaint. It is typically used for minor offenses, such as misdemeanors, and in cases where an individual has not been arrested but has been accused of a crime. The hearing allows both the accuser (often a police officer or private citizen) and the accused to present read More

• January 8, 2025 at 5:03 pm by Steven Topazio

An arraignment in Massachusetts is a formal court proceeding that occurs after a defendant has been charged with a crime. Arraignments are typically the first step in the criminal court process. During the arraignment, several important actions take place: Key Features of an ArraignmentReading of Charges: The court formally reads the charges against the defendant, providing clarity on what they are accused of. Rights Advisory: The judge informs the defendant of their rights, including the read More

• December 9, 2024 at 8:38 pm by Steven Topazio

In Massachusetts, gun ownership and carrying a firearm is regulated by strict laws, and there are different categories based on the type of license and the circumstances of carrying. Here are the key points regarding carrying a firearm in Massachusetts: Licensing RequirementsLicense to Carry (LTC): To carry a firearm in public, individuals must obtain a License to Carry (LTC) from their local police department. This license allows for the carrying of a firearm openly or read More

• December 3, 2024 at 4:13 pm by Steven Topazio

Reasonable suspicion is a legal standard used in the U.S. that allows law enforcement officers to stop and briefly detain someone if they have specific and articulable facts that suggest the person is involved in criminal activity. It is a lower standard than probable cause, which is required for arrests or searches. Reasonable suspicion is based on the officer’s experience and observations, but it cannot be based on a mere hunch or gut feeling. It read More

• November 26, 2024 at 6:27 pm by Steven Topazio

The 27th Amendment to the United States Constitution, ratified in 1992, restricts the ability of Congress to give itself a pay raise. The twenty-seventh amendment states that any law changing the compensation for members of Congress cannot take effect until after the next election of Representatives. This means that if Congress votes to increase its salary, the raise won’t apply until after the next election, allowing voters the chance to respond to the decision. Interestingly, read More