Massachusetts Fake ID Lawyer

Charged with Possession of a Fake ID in Massachusetts? Protect Your Record Before It’s Too Late.

A fake ID charge in Massachusetts may seem minor — but it is a criminal offense that can permanently affect your license, your record, your school status, and your future employment.

If you were caught using, possessing, or attempting to use a false ID in Massachusetts, you need to act quickly.

Attorney Patrick Donovan is a former prosecutor who regularly represents college students and young adults charged with fake ID offenses throughout Massachusetts.

Your goal is simple:
• Avoid a criminal record
• Protect your driver’s license
• Prevent school discipline
• Keep this from following you for years

Call (617) 479-1800 for a free, confidential consultation.

What Is the Fake ID Law in Massachusetts?

Fake ID charges in Massachusetts are prosecuted under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 138, Section 34B.

The law makes it illegal to:

Transfer, alter, or deface a liquor ID card or driver’s license
Make, use, carry, sell, or distribute a false ID
Use someone else’s identification
Provide false information to obtain an ID

This is not just an “underage drinking ticket.”
It is a criminal charge involving fraud and misrepresentation.

What Happens If You’re Charged With a Fake ID in Massachusetts?

Many students assume they will just “pay a fine and move on.” That is not how Massachusetts treats this offense.

Criminal Penalties (First Offense)

Up to 3 months in jail
Fine up to $200
Criminal record upon conviction

License Consequences

If convicted, the court must notify the RMV.

The RMV will:

Revoke your license for 1 year

Even more concerning:

Under M.G.L. c.90 §22(e) the RMV may suspend your license for at least 6 months — even if your case is dismissed. Even if the charge is dismissed, the RMV can still act. Learn more about a fake ID license suspension in Massachusetts and how to protect your driving privileges.

That means you can win your case in court and still lose your license administratively.

Fake ID Charges and College Students

For college students, the consequences go beyond court. Fake ID charges are often filed alongside Minor in Possession of Alcohol charges.

Schools often impose:

Disciplinary probation
Housing restrictions
Suspension
Loss of scholarships
Athletic eligibility issues

A fake ID charge can also affect:

Graduate school applications
Professional licensing
Financial aid
Internship background checks

This is especially critical for:

Nursing students
Law students
Medical students
Students seeking federal employment

One mistake at 18 should not define your career at 28.

What If This Is Your First Offense?

Many first-time offenders are eligible for:

Pretrial diversion
Continuance Without a Finding (CWOF)
Case dismissal after conditions
Clerk magistrate resolution (before arraignment)

The strategy depends on:

Your record
The court
The police report
How the charge was filed

The goal is always:
Avoid arraignment if possible.
Because once you are arraigned, it becomes a public criminal record entry.

Can a Fake ID Charge Be Dismissed?

Yes.

There are multiple possible defenses, including:

Lack of knowledge
Improper seizure
No proof of intent
Insufficient evidence of use
Identification issues
Constitutional violations

In many cases, the real strategy is procedural — not dramatic courtroom battles.

An experienced Massachusetts Fake ID attorney knows how to position the case for dismissal early.

What If You Were Also Charged With Underage Drinking?

Fake ID charges often come with:

These cases must be handled together strategically.

You do not want separate license suspensions stacking.

What If You Are a Parent Reading This?

If your child was charged with possession of a fake ID in Massachusetts:

Do not assume this will “just go away.”
Do not let them appear alone in court.
Do not allow an arraignment without legal strategy.

Early intervention often prevents permanent record damage.

Attorney Donovan regularly communicates directly with concerned parents and out-of-state families.

Fake ID Manufacturing or Distribution Is More Serious

If someone is accused of making or distributing fake IDs, the charge can escalate significantly — including potential felony exposure.

Those cases require immediate defense planning.

Why Hire Attorney Patrick Donovan?

Attorney Donovan is a former Assistant District Attorney who understands:

How these cases are charged
What prosecutors look for
When diversion is realistic
How to protect your license
How to protect your record

He has successfully defended numerous college students facing fake ID charges throughout Massachusetts.

Clients consistently report:

Clear communication
Reduced anxiety
Strong courtroom advocacy
Favorable outcomes

Real Client Review

“Never having been in trouble with the law before, I was extremely nervous when I was caught underage drinking at a bar with false identification. Mr. Donovan was extremely helpful in explaining my case and putting my nerves at ease. He kept in contact with me and my mom until the morning of court. I couldn’t have asked for a better attorney.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I definitely lose my license?

Not automatically — but the RMV has independent authority to suspend even if your case is dismissed. Strategy matters.

Will this stay on my record?

If handled correctly, many cases can avoid a conviction and public record damage.

Should I just plead guilty?

No. A guilty plea triggers license consequences and a permanent record.

“Related Fake ID Resources”

For a detailed breakdown of how dismissal works — including clerk magistrate hearings, diversion eligibility, and license protection strategy — read:
Can a Fake ID Charge Be Dismissed in Massachusetts?