Criminal Law
Our Services
Our office represents individuals in a variety of criminal matters in Massachusetts. We understand how stressful it can be to face criminal charges and the impact it can have on your life. We work tirelessly to ensure that your case is resolved as favorably as possible and your rights are protected.
Attorney Shapiro specializes in advising immigrant defendants and their attorneys on the potential immigration consequences of charges, and in advising criminal defense attorneys on how to resolve cases and protect an individual’s immigration status.
Criminal Defense
We represent individuals before Massachusetts courts facing criminal charges at every stage of the case for the following types of charges:
assault and battery
larceny
breaking and entering
shoplifting
malicious destruction of property
drug crimes
motor vehicle offenses and OUI
disorderly conduct
resisting arrest
disturbing the peace
firearms offenses
and others
Crimmigration Evaluations
“Crimmigration” is the relationship between criminal and immigration law. This is a highly complex and changing area of law.
Attorney Shapiro’s expertise in immigration law positions immigrant clients in criminal proceedings to make decisions that have a significant impact on their immigration status.
It is important to have someone who understands the impact on your immigration status and can defend you.
The way that immigration interprets criminal dispositions is complicated. For example, a misdemeanor can be considered an “aggravated felony” for immigration purposes, and a disposition that does not result in a criminal conviction can still be considered a conviction for immigration purposes. The way immigration law interprets criminal law can also change based on new appellate court decisions.
Post-Conviction Relief
There are several remedies available to a person seeking to overturn a conviction or reduce the punishment. These include motions for a new trial, motions for sentence reduction, motions to vacate, and habeas corpus petitions.
In 2010, the Supreme Court of the United States held that criminal defense attorneys are required under the Sixth Amendment to advise noncitizen clients of the immigration consequences of their guilty pleas. If a defendant was not properly advised of the immigration consequences of a plea deal, they may be able to have the conviction vacated. Padilla v. Kentucky, 130 S. Ct. 1473 (2010).
Sealing and Expunging Your Record
Arrests and convictions from your past can continue to haunt you down the road, including issues with employment, housing, and custody. Getting rid of these old cases, whether by sealing them or expunging them, can help you move on and get ahead. Attorney Shapiro can evaluate your circumstances, advise you on whether you’re eligible to do either, and help with the process.
License to Carry a Firearm
Attorney Shapiro is experienced in helping restore Second Amendment rights and in obtaining a License to Carry in Massachusetts.
