Understanding Massachusetts Domestic Violence Laws: What You Need to Know Before You Speak to Police

Facing a domestic violence accusation can be one of the most stressful experiences of your life. The situation can escalate quickly — often before you’ve had a chance to share your side of the story. In Massachusetts, police and prosecutors take domestic violence cases seriously, and even a single accusation can lead to immediate arrest, restraining orders, and lasting damage to your reputation.

If you or someone you care about has been accused of domestic violence in North Attleboro or anywhere in Massachusetts, Attorney Brian D. Roman is ready to defend your rights and guide you through every step of the legal process. Before you speak to the police, it’s critical to understand what the law actually says — and how to protect yourself.

What Counts as Domestic Violence in Massachusetts?

Under Massachusetts law, domestic violence includes a wide range of alleged acts committed against a family or household member. This can involve:

Physical harm or the threat of harm
Attempting to cause fear or intimidation
Emotional or verbal abuse
Unwanted physical contact or restraint

You can be charged with domestic assault even if no physical injury occurred. In fact, police are often required to make an arrest when they have “probable cause” to believe an act of domestic violence has taken place — even if the evidence is unclear or one side exaggerated the situation.

This means that even a heated argument or misunderstanding can quickly lead to criminal charges. Attorney Brian D. Roman, serving clients throughout North Attleboro and the Greater Boston area, helps people navigate these complex laws and build strong defenses when things spiral out of control.

Why You Shouldn’t Speak to Police Without a Lawyer

If the police arrive after a domestic dispute, it’s natural to want to explain what happened. However, even innocent comments can be misinterpreted and used against you later in court.

Remember:

Anything you say can be taken out of context.
Officers may record your statements.
You might unknowingly admit to something that strengthens the prosecutor’s case.

That’s why it’s crucial to remain calm, avoid discussing the incident, and contact a domestic violence defense attorney immediately. Before giving any statement, speak with Attorney Brian D. Roman, who can ensure your rights are fully protected and help you avoid costly mistakes early in the process.

The Consequences of a Domestic Violence Charge

A domestic violence conviction in Massachusetts can have serious consequences that go far beyond the courtroom. You could face:

Jail time or probation
Heavy fines
Loss of gun ownership rights
Restraining orders limiting contact with loved ones
Damage to your personal and professional reputation

Even if the alleged victim later changes their story or refuses to press charges, prosecutors may still pursue the case. That’s why Attorney Brian D. Roman takes an aggressive, evidence-driven approach to defending his clients. He carefully examines every detail of the case — from police reports to witness statements — to uncover inconsistencies and protect your future.

How Attorney Brian D. Roman Can Help

With years of criminal defense experience, Attorney Roman represents individuals who have been accused of domestic violence in North Attleboro, throughout Bristol County, and across the Greater Boston region. He understands the sensitive nature of these cases and how easily emotions can cloud the truth.

Protect Your Rights Before It’s Too Late

If you’re facing domestic violence allegations, don’t face the legal system alone. Every decision you make — especially what you say to police — can have a major impact on your future.

Call Brian D. Roman, Attorney at Law today at 508-619-9121 to schedule a confidential consultation. You can also visit www.attorneyroman.com to learn more about how he defends clients against domestic violence charges throughout Massachusetts and Rhode Island.