BostonPicks

15 Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Boston

Finding criminal defense attorneys in Boston starts with identifying the charge, hearing or court procedure involved. The local options cover matters ranging from traffic citations and clerk-magistrate hearings to serious misdemeanor, felony, firearms and restraining-order cases.

Use the comparison to focus your first calls: ask whether the attorney handles your specific matter, who will represent you, how quickly they can speak with you, and what documents to bring to the consultation.

How this guide is ordered

The ordering reflects the legal matters each practice is associated with, the type of client guidance described and the need for a focused initial conversation. Specific court experience, availability and communication should still be confirmed directly for your situation. Some eligible businesses may purchase enhanced visibility, which can influence their placement.

Top 3 Ranking Map How to choose

Three leading criminal defense practices in Boston

Open each listing to see services, location, and contact details.

#1
Law Office of William J. Barabino
5302 reviews
People facing Massachusetts criminal chargesFamilies seeking patient legal guidance
#2
The Law Office of Rosemary C. Scapicchio
5241 reviews
Complex felony cases
#3
Serpa Law Office
5239 reviews
Clerk-magistrate hearings
#4
Law Office of Matthew W Peterson
5194 reviews
Serious misdemeanor or felony chargesFirearms and related legal matters
#5
Markey Law Partners - Restraining Order Lawyers
5176 reviews
Restraining-order hearingsRelated criminal-defense matters
#6
Greater Boston Law
5150 reviews
Traffic citations and speeding mattersClients seeking step-by-step guidance
#7
Dhar Law, LLP
5138 reviews
Clients unfamiliar with court procedures
#8
Law Offices of Brett Levy, PC
4.9657 reviews
Clients needing direct, steady litigation guidance
#9
Rights Protection Law Group, PLLC
4.9580 reviews
Warranty and defective-vehicle mattersPeople seeking clear initial legal direction
#10
Law Offices of Stephen Neyman Criminal Lawyers
5112 reviews
DUI and motor-vehicle offenses
#11
Simons Law Office
5103 reviews
Serious or complex criminal chargesClients handling a Boston case from out of state
#12
Yannetti Criminal Defense Law Firm
4.9122 reviews
Serious felony chargesCases requiring intensive courtroom preparation
#13
Law Office of Patrick J. Murphy
4.9121 reviews
OUI and motor-vehicle offensesCases requiring thorough trial preparation
#14
The Law Office of Paul R. Moraski
591 reviews
Students facing serious criminal charges
#15
Da Silva Law Group
4.9107 reviews
Criminal matters with immigration or family-law implications

Compare 15 criminal defense attorneys in Boston

Law Office of William J. Barabino #1

Law Office of William J. Barabino

5302 reviews
92 High St DH9, Medford, MA 02155, United States
Best for
People facing Massachusetts criminal chargesFamilies seeking patient legal guidance

The Law Office of William J. Barabino focuses on criminal defense in Massachusetts, including property offenses, OUI-related charges, drug cases, and serious felony matters. Attorney William Barabino handles matters personally and is known for combining detailed explanations with steady, responsive communication during stressful proceedings.

The office’s approach is notably supportive: clients can expect time devoted to their questions, clear discussion of each step, and careful attention to the circumstances surrounding the case. Appointments are available online, and consultations are required for matters where a tailored defense strategy is needed.

The Law Office of Rosemary C. Scapicchio #2

The Law Office of Rosemary C. Scapicchio

5241 reviews
107 Union Wharf, Boston, MA 02109, United States
Best for
Complex felony cases

The Law Office of Rosemary C. Scapicchio handles serious criminal defense matters, with particular emphasis on complex felony and post-conviction cases. Rosemary Scapicchio’s work is associated with determined courtroom advocacy, close attention to the evidence, and persistence through lengthy legal proceedings.

The office is suited to clients facing high-stakes charges who need an attorney prepared to examine the wider context of a case and challenge potential injustices. A consultation is required, and appointments are recommended so the team can understand the circumstances before discussing a defense strategy.

Serpa Law Office #3

Serpa Law Office

5239 reviews
20 Park Plaza #400A, Boston, MA 02116, United States
Best for
Clerk-magistrate hearings

Serpa Law Office provides Massachusetts criminal defense for matters including OUI, domestic violence, clerk-magistrate hearings, and other criminal charges. Attorney Joe Serpa emphasizes a direct, practical process: explain where the case stands, identify the available options, and work toward an early and clean resolution when the facts allow.

Communication is a central strength. Clients receive patient explanations, prompt attention to questions, and representation from the initial consultation through resolution or trial. The office also considers consequences beyond court, including professional licensing and school disciplinary concerns. Online appointments are available, with an appointment required for representation.

Law Office of Matthew W Peterson #4

Law Office of Matthew W Peterson

5194 reviews
55 Union St Ste 400, Boston, MA 02108, United States
Best for
Serious misdemeanor or felony chargesFirearms and related legal matters

The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson represents clients facing serious misdemeanor and felony charges in Massachusetts state and federal courts. Its work includes criminal defense matters involving firearms, drugs, sex crimes, domestic violence, and magistrate hearings, with investigations and legal analysis tailored to the facts of each case.

The team combines trial readiness with careful client communication. Explanations are thorough, updates are consistent, and strategy is developed with the long-term consequences of a charge in mind. The office also handles immigration and family-law matters, which can be relevant when a criminal case affects other parts of a client’s life. Appointments are recommended, including for online consultations.

Markey Law Partners - Restraining Order Lawyers #5

Markey Law Partners - Restraining Order Lawyers

5176 reviews
142 Commercial St # C2, Boston, MA 02109, United States
Best for
Restraining-order hearingsRelated criminal-defense matters

Markey Law Partners handles restraining orders and criminal defense alongside personal injury and workers’ compensation matters. For urgent or contested situations, the firm’s approach centers on preparation, close attention to the facts, and clear courtroom presentation. Joe Markey and attorneys including Talya Madeira are described as responsive, composed, and highly organized.

Clients receive direct communication from the first consultation through the hearing or case resolution. The office is a strong fit for someone who needs focused representation in a restraining-order matter or related criminal case, with online appointments available and advance scheduling recommended.

Greater Boston Law #6

Greater Boston Law

5150 reviews
89 Access Rd Ste 21, Norwood, MA 02062, United States
Best for
Traffic citations and speeding mattersClients seeking step-by-step guidance

Greater Boston Law is a Boston criminal justice attorney practice with a clear focus on organized, responsive representation. Inna Rifman is known for making stressful legal situations easier to navigate through prompt communication, careful explanations, and practical guidance at each stage.

The practice is particularly relevant for traffic-related matters, including speeding tickets and citation disputes, where close attention to codes and hearing procedures can make a meaningful difference. Appointments are recommended, and advance planning is advisable.

Dhar Law, LLP #7

Dhar Law, LLP

5138 reviews
Schrafft’s City Center Power House, 529 Main St Ste P200, Charlestown, MA 02129, United States
Best for
Clients unfamiliar with court procedures

Dhar Law, LLP serves Boston with criminal defense representation shaped by patient communication and careful preparation. Vikas Dhar and his team place strong emphasis on explaining legal procedures clearly, answering questions thoroughly, and helping people understand where their matter stands.

The firm is suited to clients facing stressful or unfamiliar proceedings, including serious and federal criminal matters. Online appointments are available, and appointments are recommended so the team can review the circumstances and outline appropriate next steps.

Law Offices of Brett Levy, PC #8

Law Offices of Brett Levy, PC

4.9657 reviews
58 Winter St, Boston, MA 02108, United States
Best for
Clients needing direct, steady litigation guidance

The Law Offices of Brett Levy, PC represents clients in Boston through serious and often stressful legal matters. Brett Levy’s approach is direct, calm, and clear: he explains each stage, answers questions without creating false expectations, and provides practical guidance on the options and risks involved.

The firm’s work includes courtroom representation and assistance with matters such as personal injury and housing-related cases. Responsiveness is another defining feature, with prompt communication by phone or text and support that remains focused on keeping clients informed. Online and on-site appointments are available, while appointments are recommended.

Rights Protection Law Group, PLLC #9

Rights Protection Law Group, PLLC

4.9580 reviews
75 State St Ste 100, Boston, MA 02109, United States
Best for
Warranty and defective-vehicle mattersPeople seeking clear initial legal direction

Rights Protection Law Group, PLLC is a Boston law firm with a client-focused approach to legal matters. Kevin Crick is noted for listening carefully, explaining options clearly, and offering practical direction even when a case falls outside the firm’s ability to assist.

The firm’s work includes consumer and vehicle-related disputes, including warranty concerns and defective vehicle claims. Its patient, respectful style can be particularly valuable when a legal problem feels complicated or when a client needs a clear path toward resolution.

Law Offices of Stephen Neyman Criminal Lawyers #10

Law Offices of Stephen Neyman Criminal Lawyers

5112 reviews
10 Tremont St #602, Boston, MA 02108, United States
Best for
DUI and motor-vehicle offenses

The Law Offices of Stephen Neyman Criminal Lawyers brings long-standing Boston criminal defense experience to cases handled in Massachusetts state and federal courts. The practice is associated with focused advocacy, detailed preparation, and a calm, confident approach when the legal stakes are high.

Stephen Neyman is especially relevant for DUI and motor-vehicle offenses, criminal complaints, domestic assault and battery, and other serious charges. Communication is a central strength: legal strategy and hearing expectations are explained clearly, with attention to the details that can shape a defense. Appointments are recommended, and online appointments are available.

Simons Law Office #11

Simons Law Office

5103 reviews
53 State St Ste 500, Boston, MA 02109, United States
Best for
Serious or complex criminal chargesClients handling a Boston case from out of state

Simons Law Office is a Boston criminal defense practice focused exclusively on challenging and complex charges. Joseph B. Simons and his team develop personalized strategies for matters heard in district, superior, and federal courts, with an approach that combines detailed preparation, creative thinking, and direct advocacy.

Communication is a defining part of the service. Questions receive prompt attention, legal steps are explained patiently, and unusual cases receive the extra care their circumstances require. The firm also represents clients from outside Massachusetts, making it a useful option when a Boston case creates logistical challenges. Appointments are required or recommended, including for online consultations.

Yannetti Criminal Defense Law Firm #12

Yannetti Criminal Defense Law Firm

4.9122 reviews
44 School St #1000a, Boston, MA 02108, United States
Best for
Serious felony chargesCases requiring intensive courtroom preparation

Yannetti Criminal Defense Law Firm represents Boston-area clients in demanding criminal matters with a highly strategic, trial-focused approach. David Yannetti and the team are recognized for close attention to detail, strong courtroom preparation, and calm guidance when a case places a person’s future, career, or family under pressure.

The firm’s work is particularly suited to serious felony charges and proceedings requiring disciplined legal strategy. Communication is responsive and compassionate, while the overall service remains organized and focused. Appointments are recommended, with advance planning advisable.

Law Office of Patrick J. Murphy #13

Law Office of Patrick J. Murphy

4.9121 reviews
90 Canal St 4th Floor, Boston, MA 02114, United States
Best for
OUI and motor-vehicle offensesCases requiring thorough trial preparation

The Law Office of Patrick J. Murphy provides Boston criminal defense with a particularly clear, deliberate style. Patrick Murphy takes time to explain each stage, answer questions thoroughly, and make complicated legal issues easier for individuals and families to understand.

His practice covers OUI and other motor-vehicle offenses, assault and battery, domestic violence, and broader criminal defense matters. Strong written motions, careful evidence analysis, witness cross-examination, and trial preparation are central elements of the service. The approach is responsive and organized, with close attention to the client’s circumstances and realistic expectations. Appointments are recommended.

The Law Office of Paul R. Moraski #14

The Law Office of Paul R. Moraski

591 reviews
100 State St f9, Boston, MA 02109, United States
Best for
Students facing serious criminal charges

The Law Office of Paul R. Moraski serves Boston with attentive criminal defense focused on clear communication and steady support. Paul Moraski takes time to explain case developments, upcoming steps, and potential consequences without making the process feel opaque or impersonal.

His patient, analytical approach is well suited to people facing serious charges, including students and others concerned about the effect of a case on their future. The practice is organized and responsive, with careful attention to questions throughout the proceedings. Appointments are recommended.

Da Silva Law Group #15

Da Silva Law Group

4.9107 reviews
100 Cambridge St 14th floor, Boston, MA 02114, United States
Best for
Criminal matters with immigration or family-law implications

Da Silva Law Group brings a team-based approach to criminal defense in Boston, with personalized attention and coordinated legal strategy. The practice handles matters that can overlap with immigration and family law, giving Michele Da Silva and her colleagues a broader framework for understanding the pressures surrounding a case.

Communication is patient, direct, and compassionate. The team takes time to listen, explain options, and guide people through difficult proceedings, including assault and battery matters. Its criminal defense work emphasizes protection of rights, careful preparation, and practical legal solutions rather than a one-size-fits-all process. Online and on-site appointments are available, and scheduling is recommended.

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Map of criminal defense attorneys in Boston

The listed practices serve Boston-based legal searches, but the citywide comparison does not replace checking the exact office location or court coverage. This matters when a hearing is scheduled on short notice or involves a particular Massachusetts court.

For convenience, compare travel time with consultation availability and ask whether meetings are held in person, remotely or at another location. Keep the courthouse, required appearance date and urgency in mind when choosing whom to contact.

Criminal defense matters covered

  • Massachusetts criminal chargesLaw Office of William J. Barabino works with people facing Massachusetts criminal charges and families seeking patient legal guidance.
  • Complex felony defenseThe Law Office of Rosemary C. Scapicchio is associated with complex felony cases requiring a focused defense consultation.
  • Clerk-magistrate hearingsSerpa Law Office is suited to people preparing for clerk-magistrate hearings and seeking step-by-step support.
  • Misdemeanor and felony mattersLaw Office of Matthew W Peterson handles serious misdemeanor or felony charges, including firearms and related legal matters.
  • Restraining-order hearingsMarkey Law Partners covers restraining-order hearings and related criminal-defense matters.
  • Traffic citationsGreater Boston Law is associated with traffic citations and speeding matters, with guidance for clients who want the process explained clearly.
  • Court procedure guidanceDhar Law, LLP helps clients unfamiliar with court procedures understand the steps involved in their matter.
  • Litigation guidanceLaw Offices of Brett Levy, PC suits clients seeking direct, steady guidance during criminal litigation.

How to choose a defense attorney

  1. Name the exact charge, citation or hearing when requesting an initial consultation.
  2. Ask about experience with the relevant Massachusetts court and type of proceeding.
  3. Confirm who will handle the case and whether another attorney may appear at hearings.
  4. For urgent matters, explain the deadline, arrest status or scheduled appearance immediately.
  5. Bring charging papers, notices, police documents and prior court information when available.
  6. Ask how communication works, what the first consultation covers and which next steps are time-sensitive.

Frequently asked questions

How quickly should I contact a criminal defense attorney?

Contact an attorney as soon as you learn about an arrest, charge, citation or scheduled hearing. Early advice can help you understand deadlines and avoid preventable mistakes.

If a court date is close, state that immediately when calling so the office can assess availability.

Which attorney can help with a clerk-magistrate hearing?

Serpa Law Office is associated with clerk-magistrate hearings. When contacting any attorney, explain the notice you received, the alleged conduct and the hearing date.

Ask whether the practice handles this specific procedure and what documents should be sent before the consultation.

Can a Boston defense attorney handle firearms matters?

Law Office of Matthew W Peterson is associated with firearms and related legal matters, as well as serious misdemeanor or felony charges. Confirm the exact charge, court and representation arrangements during the first conversation, since firearms cases can involve highly specific procedural issues.

What should I ask during the first legal consultation?

Ask whether the attorney handles your charge, has experience with the relevant court, and can meet your timeline. Clarify who will represent you, how updates are provided, what documents are needed and which immediate actions or deadlines require attention.

Who can help with a traffic citation or speeding matter?

Greater Boston Law is associated with traffic citations and speeding matters. Have the citation, hearing information and driving record details available when you call, then confirm whether the office can represent you for the specific violation and court listed on the notice.

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