A domestic violence arrest in Boston, Massachusetts sets off an immediate chain of events — a mandatory arraignment, a possible restraining order, and serious criminal exposure. Attorney Mark J. Clifford defends clients charged with domestic assault and battery throughout Suffolk County and all of Massachusetts. Call (617) 501-0411 now — available 24/7 including nights and weekends.
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In Massachusetts, domestic violence charges typically involve assault and battery between household members, family members, or persons in a substantive dating relationship. A conviction carries up to 2.5 years in jail for a misdemeanor, and longer for felony charges. Critically, Massachusetts police are required to make an arrest if they find probable cause of domestic assault — even if neither party wants an arrest. Cases are heard at Boston Municipal Court / Suffolk Superior Court.
After a domestic violence arrest in Boston, a 209A (abuse prevention order) is typically issued as a condition of bail — removing you from your home, limiting contact with the alleged victim, and triggering firearms surrender. Attorney Clifford attends every restraining order hearing in Suffolk County to challenge the order, present evidence, and minimize its impact on your life.
False domestic violence accusations do happen — during divorces, custody disputes, and in cases of mutual combatants where only one party is charged. Attorney Clifford investigates every Boston domestic violence case for text messages, call records, prior police contacts, witness accounts, and physical evidence that challenges the accuser's narrative and supports your defense.
Not every domestic violence charge results in a conviction. Attorney Clifford has achieved dismissals, not-guilty verdicts, CWOFs (Continuance Without a Finding), and Pretrial Probation for domestic violence defendants throughout Suffolk County. A CWOF means no conviction — the case is dismissed after a probation period, protecting your record and your future.
Facing Domestic Violence charges in Boston? Get your free case review now.
📞 (617) 501-0411 Book OnlineAfter a domestic violence arrest in Boston, you will be arraigned — usually the next business day. A 209A restraining order is typically issued as a bail condition. You may be ordered to stay away from your home and the alleged victim. Call Attorney Clifford immediately at (617) 501-0411 to prepare for arraignment.
Yes. Domestic violence charges in Boston can be dismissed through CWOF, pretrial probation, not-guilty verdicts, or when the prosecution lacks sufficient evidence to proceed. Even if the alleged victim recants, the prosecutor may still pursue the case — which is why experienced legal representation is critical.
A CWOF (Continuance Without a Finding) means you admit to sufficient facts but receive no conviction. After a successful probation period (usually 1 year for first offenses), the domestic violence case is dismissed — leaving no conviction on your record. It is often the best available outcome for first-time defendants.
Yes. A domestic violence conviction or an active 209A restraining order requires you to surrender all firearms and your LTC/FID card in Massachusetts. Attorney Clifford works to protect your Second Amendment rights as part of your comprehensive defense strategy.
Immediately. Your arraignment is likely within 24–72 hours. Attorney Clifford needs time to prepare for arraignment, review the police report, and present arguments about bail conditions including the restraining order. Call (617) 501-0411 the moment you are released.
Clifford Defense handles domestic violence cases throughout Suffolk County and all of Massachusetts. Wherever your case is in court — we appear.
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Attorney Mark J. Clifford is available 24/7. Do not face domestic violence charges in Boston alone.
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