Best Boston Criminal Defense Attorneys

The best Boston criminal defense attorneys know Massachusetts prosecutors play hardball, especially in Suffolk County. Your freedom depends on choosing wisely. Our vetted list features Boston's top-rated defense lawyers who've won cases in local courts and understand the city's legal landscape.

List of the Top Criminal Defense Attorneys in Boston, Massachusetts

Screenshot of the Law Office of Matthew W Peterson Website
55 Union St Suite 400, Boston, MA 02108, USA
Screenshot of the The Law Office of Rosemary C. Scapicchio Website

The Law Office of Rosemary C. Scapicchio defends clients facing serious criminal charges in Boston. Attorney Scapicchio specializes in wrongful convictions, murder cases, and drug trafficking defense. She successfully freed Julio Baez after 10 years of wrongful imprisonment and represented Sean Ellis in the case featured on Netflix. Her aggressive courtroom tactics have secured not guilty verdicts in multiple homicide trials. The firm handles federal lawsuits, Title IX cases, and suppression motions. Scapicchio's dedication to justice has earned respect throughout Massachusetts courts.

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Screenshot of the Toland Law, LLC Website
2 Oliver St #701, Boston, MA 02109, USA

Toland Law, LLC, a top-rated Boston legal counsel, specializes in criminal defense and immigration law. Led by attorneys Paul J. Toland and Juan C. Congote, the firm provides aggressive representation. They handle OUI/DUI, domestic violence, drug crimes, and immigration matters. Toland Law delivers results-driven, compassionate service to help clients achieve the best outcomes. With their expertise, Toland Law is a trusted choice for criminal defense and immigration needs in Boston.

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Screenshot of the Serpa Law Office | Criminal Defense & DUI Website

Serpa Law Office specializes in criminal defense throughout Eastern Massachusetts. Attorney Joe Serpa, a Georgetown Law graduate with 25+ years of experience, focuses on DUI/OUI and domestic violence cases. He has secured numerous dismissals and acquittals for clients. The firm maintains offices in Boston's Back Bay and Quincy's Marina Bay.

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Screenshot of the Law Office of William J. Barabino Website

William J. Barabino is a criminal defense attorney in Medford, specializing in OUI/DUI and felony cases. He served on the Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee and has received numerous legal awards. The firm offers free consultations and represents clients in courts throughout Massachusetts.

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Screenshot of the Mass Injury Group Website
15 Broad St #800, Boston, MA 02109, USA

At Mass Injury Group, we are here to help you navigate through tough times with expertise and care. Our team is dedicated to fighting for the maximum compensation you deserve. We offer 100% free consultations to better understand your case.

Practice Areas:

  • Car accidents
  • Motorcycle accidents
  • Truck accidents
  • Pedestrian accidents
  • Bike accidents
  • Catastrophic injuries
  • Wrongful death
  • Workers' compensation
  • Social Security disability
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Screenshot of the Law Office of Patrick J. Murphy Website

Patrick J. Murphy is a committed criminal defense attorney in Boston. He defends clients accused of crimes such as OUI (Operating Under the Influence), assault, domestic violence, theft, and drug offenses. Murphy offers caring, professional advice. He knows when it's best to go to trial.

If you're facing criminal charges in Suffolk County or the surrounding areas, Murphy can help. He can fight your case, look for ways to avoid trial, or help clear your record. He also helps with removing warrants. You can set up a free consultation to discuss your case.

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Screenshot of the Law Offices of Rachel L. Rado, LLC Website

Law Offices of Rachel L. Rado in Boston, MA, offers expert legal services in immigration, criminal, and divorce law. Rachel L. Rado guides clients through complex immigration processes. The firm also handles criminal cases and divorce matters, ensuring clients' immigration status remains secure. With years of experience, they've successfully prevented deportations and kept families united.

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Screenshot of the Law Offices of Stephen Neyman Criminal Lawyers Website

Stephen Neyman defends individuals charged with crimes in Boston and throughout Massachusetts. Our team, led by the committed trial lawyer Stephen Neyman, brings over 30 years of experience. We have a strong track record of getting charges dismissed, securing favorable plea deals, and winning cases in state and federal courts. From the moment you're arrested, we work non-stop to defend your rights through trial and even during appeals if necessary.

We specialize in defending against charges, including:

  • violent crimes,
  • sex crimes,
  • domestic violence,
  • drug-related offenses,
  • white-collar crimes,
  • and DUIs.

Our team is available 24/7 to offer you expert legal advice and representation. For a free consultation, please get in touch with us.

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Screenshot of the Simons Law Office Website
10 Post Office Square STE 800, Boston, MA 02109, USA

Simons Law Office in Boston, MA offers top-tier criminal defense. Attorney Joseph B. Simons specializes in complex cases. He has a track record of not guilty verdicts. Offices are in Boston and Salem. Call (781) 797-0555 for legal representation.

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Screenshot of the Brad Bailey Law Website
44 School St Suite 1000B, Boston, MA 02108, USA

Brad Bailey Law is a leading Boston criminal defense firm. Founded by Harvard graduate and former prosecutor Brad Bailey, they handle complex state and federal cases. The experienced team defends clients against white-collar and violent felony charges. With decades of combined experience, Brad Bailey is recognized for trial skills and not-guilty jury verdicts. Trust them to protect your rights and freedom if facing criminal charges in Boston.

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Screenshot of the Yannetti Criminal Defense Law Firm Website
44 School St #1000a, Boston, MA 02108, USA

David Yannetti offers high-quality legal help for people charged with crimes in Massachusetts. The attorney leads a team of former prosecutors. They defend clients in cases like domestic violence, sex crimes, drug charges, weapons violations, and theft. The firm has offices in Boston, Salem, and Dedham. These experienced trial lawyers utilize their courtroom expertise to defend clients, striving for the best possible outcomes. They are reliable, strong defenders specializing only in criminal defense.

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Screenshot of the The Law Office of Matthew J. Kidd & Associates, P.C. Website

Matthew J. Kidd provides award-winning legal services in Boston, Massachusetts. We are a team of experienced lawyers specializing in several legal areas. Our areas of expertise include employment law, personal injury, and criminal defense. Our clients always come first, and we tailor our support to meet their needs.

We are proud to have received numerous awards from legal industry publications. These honors reflect our commitment to excellence and our perfect client satisfaction rating. We provide the best possible legal representation to our clients in Massachusetts.

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Screenshot of the Law Offices of Steven J. Topazio Website
44 School St #1000c, Boston, MA 02108, USA

Steven J. Topazio represents clients in Boston criminal defense and personal injury cases. With over 30 years of experience, he handles felonies and misdemeanors throughout Massachusetts. Attorney Topazio is a Super Lawyers member and was named among the Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Boston. He starts investigations immediately, not waiting for the first court date. The firm offers no-cost consultations and flat fee pricing. Cases include domestic violence, drug charges, firearms offenses, DUI, and sex crimes. His proactive approach focuses on challenging evidence and protecting client rights.

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Screenshot of the Coughlin Law | Criminal & DUI Defense Website
98 N Washington St Suite B3, Boston, MA 02114, USA

Former prosecutor Christopher B. Coughlin leads the Coughlin Law Group. The firm fights for clients dealing with DUI, drug crimes, assault, violent crimes, sex offenses, and other charges. Thanks to Attorney Coughlin's experience as a prosecutor, he knows how to build strong defenses to reduce charges and mitigate penalties. The firm is recognized for achieving the best possible outcomes, being a trusted presence for clients, and paying meticulous attention to every detail. Coughlin Law Group has a top rating of 10.0 on Avvo.

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Screenshot of the KJC Law Firm, LLC Website
10 Tremont St 5th Floor, Boston, MA 02108, USA

KJC in Boston specializes in personal injury and employment law. Kathy Jo Cook, a renowned trial attorney with decades of experience in the courtroom, leads the firm. Kathy Jo and her team handle complex cases involving personal injury, wrongful death, and employment-related issues. They have won substantial amounts of money for clients injured in accidents or due to medical mistakes. Kathy Jo is known as one of the best lawyers in Massachusetts.

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Screenshot of the Bellotti Law Group, P.C. Website
529 Main St #128, Boston, MA 02129, USA

Bellotti Law Group serves Boston and Cambridge with personal injury, criminal defense, and family law cases. Founded in 1989, the firm has recovered millions for injury victims. Peter Bellotti and his attorneys handle car crashes, medical malpractice, and OUI charges. They have offices in Cambridge and Quincy. The firm provides no-cost consultations for most cases throughout Suffolk, Middlesex, and Norfolk Counties.

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Screenshot of the Zalkind Duncan & Bernstein LLP Website
65A Atlantic Ave, Boston, MA 02110, USA

Zalkind Duncan & Bernstein LLP in Boston specializes in trial cases. Our determined lawyers have offered top-notch services in criminal defense and employment law. We work hard to create the strongest possible cases. Our history of significant victories highlights our commitment and expertise. We have achieved impressive jury verdicts and settlements. Additionally, we guide executives and employees on contracts and workplace issues. Driven by a passion for justice, we strive to defend rights and achieve positive outcomes.

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Screenshot of the Rachel M. Self, P.C. Website
6 Beacon St, Boston, MA 02108, USA

Rachel M. Self, P.C. is a Boston immigration and criminal defense law practice. Attorney Self appears as a legal analyst on Fox News Channel and CNN. Her team handles complex immigration cases and criminal defense matters. The firm specializes in family-based immigration, deportation defense, and criminal law cases. They serve clients in Greater Boston with a strong record in post-conviction relief and citizenship approvals.

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Screenshot of the Criminal Defense Attorney Michelle L. Hubbard Website

Michelle L. Hubbard, a top criminal defense attorney in Boston, MA, has over 500 dismissed charges. She specializes in DUI, drug crimes, and violent offenses. Her law firm offers free consultations and is available 24/7. She has offices in Boston and Newburyport, providing aggressive defense to maintain clean records and prevent jail time.

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Screenshot of the Urbelis Law, LLC Website
44 School St 6th Floor, Boston, MA 02108, USA

Boston criminal defense attorney Benjamin Urbelis represents clients in OUI, drug crimes, violent crimes, and white collar cases. The firm has achieved not guilty verdicts in over 80% of cases taken to trial. Urbelis Law handles federal criminal matters and state court cases throughout Suffolk, Middlesex, Norfolk, Essex, Worcester, and Plymouth Counties. The team is available 24/7 for consultations. They also assist with gun crimes, sex crimes, and administrative hearings. Initial case reviews are provided at no charge.

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Screenshot of the David J. Grimaldi, P.C. Website
875 Massachusetts Ave STE 31, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA

David J. Grimaldi is a Cambridge criminal defense attorney with extensive trial experience. He has won not guilty verdicts for murder, rape, drug crimes, and firearms charges. Attorney Grimaldi secured a landmark ruling as the first Massachusetts attorney to obtain immunity for defense witnesses. He represents clients in Boston federal and state courts. Services include defense for violent crimes, sex offenses, and white-collar cases.

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Screenshot of the Masferrer & Riley, P.C. Website
55 Union St 4th floor, Boston, MA 02108, USA

Masferrer & Riley is a top Boston criminal defense firm, serving clients since 2003. Partners Eduardo Masferrer and Casey Riley lead our bilingual team. We handle every case with care and a strong commitment to providing excellent legal assistance. Our main focus is on the people we represent - their families, rights, and freedoms. We don't just think about courtrooms and legal documents. We work diligently to defend Boston's diverse community and strive to be the city's premier advocacy law firm. Contact us at (617) 531-0135 for a complimentary consultation on any criminal or immigration matter.

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Screenshot of the Law Offices of Susan Correia-Champa Website

Since 1997, Susan Correia-Champa has been serving Boston, MA. We specialize in divorce and family law services. Our attorney helps with both contested and uncontested divorces. We also work to secure child custody and support. Additionally, we represent clients in alimony and domestic violence cases. Beyond family law, we handle criminal law and civil equity matters. Contact us for a free consultation.

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Screenshot of the Bisson Law Website
75 Arlington St 5th Floor, Boston, MA 02116, USA

Bisson Law is a reputable law firm serving individuals and businesses in Boston. Its skilled lawyers specialize in personal injury, real estate, and estate planning. The legal practice prioritizes personalized attention to achieve the best results for clients. Bisson is a recognized member of the Massachusetts Bar Association. The firm's attorneys are dedicated to delivering exceptional legal services. Clients can expect experienced representation and dedicated advocacy.

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Screenshot of the Law Office of John P. Warren, P.C. Website
132 Lincoln St Suite 5L, Boston, MA 02111, USA

John P. Warren focuses on criminal defense throughout Boston and Massachusetts. As a former public defender with six years at the Committee for Public Counsel Services, he represented hundreds of clients before opening his firm in 2018. Attorney Warren handles cases from arraignment through trial in Suffolk, Middlesex, Bristol, Norfolk, Plymouth, and Worcester counties. He was named to Super Lawyers Rising Stars from 2019-2022. His client-centered approach provides dedicated representation at every stage of the criminal justice process.

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Screenshot of the Matthew K. Barison, Attorney Website
100 Cambridge St 14th floor, Boston, MA 02114, USA

Matthew Barison is a trial attorney based in Boston with over a decade of experience. He specializes in several areas:

  • criminal defense,
  • personal injury,
  • employment law,
  • juvenile law,
  • and issues related to the LGBT community.

His fees are affordable, and he provides free consultations. Barison has been recognized by the Boston City Council, the Massachusetts House of Representatives, and the Massachusetts Senate. For a free review of your case, call Barison at 617-807-0949.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I'm arrested in Boston?

If you're arrested in Boston, you should:

  • Exercise your right to remain silent and avoid discussing your case with anyone except your attorney
  • Request to speak with a criminal defense attorney immediately before answering any questions
  • Do not resist arrest or argue with law enforcement officers
  • Remember and write down all details about your arrest as soon as possible

How do I choose the best criminal defense attorney in Boston?

When selecting a criminal defense attorney, consider these important factors:

  • Experience handling cases similar to yours in Boston courts
  • Track record of successful case outcomes and plea negotiations
  • Knowledge of local court procedures and relationships with prosecutors
  • Client reviews and professional reputation in the Boston legal community

What are common criminal charges in Boston?

Boston criminal defense attorneys frequently handle these types of cases:

Misdemeanors Felonies
Disorderly Conduct Aggravated Assault
Simple Assault Drug Trafficking
DUI/OUI Armed Robbery
Petty Theft Serious Weapons Charges

How much does a criminal defense attorney cost in Boston?

Criminal defense attorney fees in Boston typically vary based on:

  • Case complexity and severity of charges
  • Attorney's experience level and reputation
  • Whether the case goes to trial or resolves through plea bargaining
  • Required investigation and expert witness costs

Many Boston criminal defense attorneys offer free initial consultations and flexible payment plans.

What are the potential consequences of a criminal conviction in Massachusetts?

Criminal convictions in Massachusetts can result in:

  • Jail or prison time, depending on the severity of the offense
  • Substantial fines and court costs
  • Probation and mandatory counseling or treatment programs
  • Loss of professional licenses and employment opportunities
  • Immigration consequences for non-citizens

How long does a criminal case typically take in Boston?

The duration of criminal cases varies significantly depending on:

  • Case complexity and evidence involved
  • Court calendar and scheduling
  • Whether the case goes to trial or resolves through plea negotiations
  • Number of pre-trial motions and hearings required

Simple misdemeanor cases might resolve in a few months, while complex felony cases can take a year or longer.

Can a criminal record be sealed or expunged in Massachusetts?

Yes, under certain circumstances. Massachusetts law allows for:

  • Sealing of criminal records after waiting periods (3 years for misdemeanors, 7 years for felonies)
  • Immediate sealing of cases with not guilty verdicts or dismissals
  • Expungement of certain juvenile records and first-time offenses
  • Special provisions for cases involving decriminalized offenses