Brookline District Court Criminal Defense Lawyer – Former Prosecutor

Arrested or charged with a crime in Brookline, MA? Your arraignment at Brookline District Court could happen within 24-72 hours. What you do right now will determine whether you walk away with a clean record or face lasting consequences.

Patrick Donovan is a former Massachusetts prosecutor who has appeared at 360 Washington Street hundreds of times. He knows the judges, the Norfolk County prosecutors, and exactly how to protect your rights from the moment you’re charged.

📞 Call (617) 479-1800 NOW

Free Consultation | Available 24/7 | Don’t Face Court Alone

Why People Choose Patrick Donovan for Brookline District Court Cases

✓ Former Norfolk County Prosecutor

Patrick worked alongside the same prosecutors now handling your case. He knows how they build cases, what weaknesses they look for, and when they’re willing to negotiate.

✓ Hundreds of Brookline Court Appearances

Every courthouse has its own culture. Patrick knows which judges are strict on bail, which prosecutors will negotiate early, and how Brookline probation officers handle conditions of release.

✓ Available Before Your First Court Date

Most defense happens before arraignment—during police interviews, bail hearings, and prosecutor negotiations. Patrick gets involved immediately, often preventing charges from being filed at all.

✓ Track Record of Dismissals & Reduced Charges

Many cases that look serious at arrest can be dismissed or significantly reduced. Patrick has successfully defended clients against OUI, domestic violence, assault, drug charges, and more at Brookline District Court.

Don’t wait until you’re standing in front of a judge unprepared.Call (617) 479-1800 for a Free Case Evaluation

Understanding Brookline District Court

Brookline District Court serves the Town of Brookline and handles thousands of criminal cases each year—from misdemeanors to serious felonies. It’s part of the Massachusetts Trial Court system, and cases here are prosecuted by the Norfolk County District Attorney’s Office, one of the most aggressive DA offices in the state.

If you’ve been arrested by Brookline Police, you will be arraigned at this courthouse. And what happens at that arraignment—bail decisions, restraining orders, conditions of release—will follow you throughout the entire case.

Brookline District Court Location & Contact

Address: 360 Washington Street, Brookline, MA 02445
Phone: (617) 232-4660
Clerk’s Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Arraignments: Typically held at 9:00 AM Monday through Friday

Parking & Arrival Tips

• Limited street parking – Arrive early or use the public lot on Station Street
• Best arrival time: 8:30 AM to meet with your attorney before court begins
• Security checkpoint: Allow extra time; no phones allowed in some courtrooms
• Dress code: Business casual at minimum—first impressions matter to judges

⚠️ Critical Warning: Do not speak to probation officers, prosecutors, or police without a lawyer present. Anything you say before arraignment—even “just explaining what happened”—can be used against you.

What Happens at Arraignment in Brookline District Court

Arraignment is often the most important stage of your case. Many people don’t realize this and show up unprepared—only to find themselves hit with conditions that will control their life for months or years.

At Your Arraignment, the Judge Will:

• Read the formal charges against you (often more serious than what police told you at arrest)
• Set bail or order you held without bail if charges are serious
• Impose conditions of release such as GPS monitoring, curfews, or drug testing
• Issue no-contact orders preventing you from seeing family members, romantic partners, or returning to your home
• Order you to stay away from certain locations (your workplace, your neighborhood, specific streets)
• Create a permanent court record that follows you even if the case is later dismissed

Once these conditions are imposed, reversing them is extremely difficult. You may be stuck with a GPS ankle monitor for months, unable to see your children, or banned from your own home—all before you’ve been convicted of anything.

How a Brookline District Court Criminal Lawyer Helps at Arraignment

An experienced attorney can:

• ✓ Argue for release without bail or on personal recognizance
• ✓ Prevent unnecessary conditions like GPS monitoring or stay-away orders
• ✓ Negotiate directly with prosecutors before you even walk into the courtroom
• ✓ Request immediate dismissal if charges are weak or evidence is insufficient
• ✓ Protect your employment, housing, and family situation by preventing conditions that would make it impossible to work or go home
• ✓ Challenge illegal searches or arrests that violated your constitutional rights

Do not attend arraignment alone. One bad decision at arraignment can derail your entire case.Call (617) 479-1800 Before Your Court Date

Criminal Charges We Defend at Brookline District Court

Patrick Donovan defends clients against all types of criminal charges at Brookline District Court. Here are the most common cases we handle:

Domestic Violence & Restraining Orders

Domestic violence cases are prosecuted aggressively in Brookline, even when the alleged victim does not want charges filed. These cases often involve:

• Assault & Battery on a Family or Household Member – The most common domestic violence charge in Massachusetts
• 209A Restraining Order Violations – Can result in immediate arrest and jail time
• Witness Intimidation – Frequently added when there’s any contact with the alleged victim
• Strangulation/Suffocation – A felony charge that carries mandatory prison time if convicted
• Stalking – Can be charged even for text messages or social media contact

What’s at Stake: Domestic violence convictions trigger mandatory batterer’s intervention programs, no-contact orders that can last years, loss of gun licenses, and difficulty finding employment or housing.

How We Defend You: Many domestic violence cases involve exaggerated claims, mutual altercations, or false allegations made during heated breakups or custody disputes. Patrick has successfully defended hundreds of domestic violence cases by challenging witness credibility, presenting evidence of self-defense, and negotiating reduced charges that avoid domestic violence designations.Learn More About Domestic Violence Defense

OUI / DUI (Drunk Driving)

Brookline Police and Massachusetts State Police make frequent OUI arrests on Route 9, Beacon Street, and throughout Brookline. These cases are prosecuted in Brookline District Court and carry serious penalties:

• First Offense OUI – Up to 2.5 years in jail, $5,000 fine, 1-year license suspension
• Second Offense OUI – Mandatory minimum 30 days in jail, 2-year license loss, ignition interlock device
• OUI with Child Endangerment – Enhanced penalties if a child under 14 was in the vehicle
• OUI Causing Serious Bodily Injury – Felony charges with state prison exposure

Common Defenses: Many OUI cases can be challenged based on:

• Illegal traffic stops (police must have reasonable suspicion to pull you over)
• Improperly administered field sobriety tests
• Breathalyzer calibration errors or operator mistakes
• Medical conditions that mimic intoxication
• Rising blood alcohol (you were under .08 while driving, but over .08 when tested)

Recent Brookline OUI Results: Patrick recently secured a NOT GUILTY verdict in a Brookline OUI trial where the client refused the breathalyzer and field sobriety tests. The prosecution relied solely on officer observations—which we successfully challenged at trial.Learn More About OUI/DUI Defense

Drug Crimes

Drug charges in Brookline range from simple possession to distribution and trafficking. Common charges include:

• Possession of Class A, B, C, or D Drugs (heroin, cocaine, fentanyl, prescription pills, marijuana over legal limits)
• Possession with Intent to Distribute – Based on quantity, packaging, cash, scales, or text messages
• Drug Distribution – Can be charged even for sharing drugs with friends
• School Zone Violations – Enhanced penalties if within 1,000 feet of a school (common in Brookline due to many schools)

Important: First-time drug offenders may qualify for diversionary programs that can result in dismissal. Patrick can evaluate whether you’re eligible for:

• Drug Court
• Continuance Without a Finding (CWOF)
• Pre-Trial Probation
• Dismissal under Section 35 (treatment instead of prosecution)

Learn More About Drug Crime Defense

Assault & Battery / Violent Crimes

Assault and battery charges can range from misdemeanors to serious felonies depending on the circumstances:

• Simple Assault & Battery – Misdemeanor with up to 2.5 years in jail
• Assault & Battery with a Dangerous Weapon – Can be charged for using any object (even a shoe or drinking glass)
• Aggravated Assault & Battery – Causing serious bodily injury
• Assault on a Police Officer – Mandatory jail time if convicted
• Threats to Commit a Crime – Can be charged even for angry words during an argument

Defense Strategies: Many assault cases involve:

• Self-defense (you were protecting yourself or others)
• Defense of property
• Mutual combat (both parties were fighting)
• Mistaken identity
• Exaggerated injuries or false allegations

Learn More About Assault & Battery Defense

Theft Crimes & Shoplifting

Brookline has numerous retail stores, and shoplifting arrests are common. Theft charges include:

• Shoplifting – Taking merchandise from a store
• Larceny Under $1,200 – Misdemeanor theft
• Larceny Over $1,200 – Felony theft with state prison exposure
• Receiving Stolen Property – Possessing items you knew or should have known were stolen
• Identity Fraud / Credit Card Fraud – Using someone else’s personal or financial information

First-Time Offenders: If this is your first offense, Patrick can often negotiate for:

• Pre-trial diversion programs that result in dismissal
• Restitution without a criminal conviction
• Community service in exchange for dismissal

Learn More About Theft Crime Defense

Motor Vehicle Crimes

Beyond OUI, common motor vehicle charges in Brookline include:

• Leaving the Scene of an Accident (property damage or personal injury)
• Operating After Suspension (OAS) – Driving with a suspended or revoked license
• Negligent Operation – Reckless driving that endangers others
• Unlicensed Operation – Driving without a valid license
• Operating an Uninsured Motor Vehicle
• Failure to Stop for Police

These charges often come with immediate Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) consequences, including license suspension, even before you’re convicted.Learn More About Motor Vehicle Crime Defense

Other Common Charges

• Disorderly Conduct – Often charged in bar fights, loud parties, or arguments
• Disturbing the Peace – Can result from noise complaints
• Trespassing – Being on property without permission
• Resisting Arrest – Any physical resistance to police, even minor
• Probation Violations – Missing appointments, positive drug tests, new arrests
• Outstanding Warrants – Failure to appear in court on prior cases

Case Results

While every case is different and past results don’t guarantee future outcomes, here are examples of cases Patrick has successfully resolved at Brookline District Court:

OUI First Offense – NOT GUILTY at Trial

Charge: Operating Under the Influence of Alcohol
Result: Client arrested after police observed “erratic driving” on Route 9. Client refused field sobriety tests and breathalyzer. Prosecution relied solely on officer testimony. After cross-examination revealed inconsistencies in officer observations and dashboard camera footage contradicted the police report, jury returned a NOT GUILTY verdict.

Domestic Assault & Battery – DISMISSED

Charge: Assault & Battery on Family/Household Member
Result: Client accused by ex-girlfriend during contentious breakup. No independent witnesses. Photos of alleged injuries taken days after incident. We presented text messages showing the accuser threatened to “make up charges” if client didn’t move out immediately. DA dismissed at pre-trial conference.

Drug Possession – REDUCED to Civil Citation

Charge: Possession of Class B Substance (Cocaine)
Result: Client stopped for traffic violation. Officer searched vehicle and found small amount of cocaine. We filed motion to suppress based on illegal search. Rather than risk losing the motion, DA agreed to reduce charge to civil violation with $100 fine—no criminal record.

Assault & Battery with Dangerous Weapon – REDUCED to Simple A&B, CWOF

Charge: Assault & Battery with Dangerous Weapon (felony)
Result: Client charged with hitting someone with a bottle during bar fight. Witness statements conflicted. Security video unclear. Negotiated reduction to misdemeanor simple assault & battery with Continuance Without a Finding. Client completed anger management program, case dismissed after 6 months.

Shoplifting – DISMISSED After Diversion Program

Charge: Shoplifting over $250
Result: College student with no prior record caught shoplifting at Brookline store. Negotiated pretrial diversion program requiring community service and restitution. After completion, charges formally dismissed—no criminal record.

209A Restraining Order Violation – DISMISSED, Order Modified

Charge: Violation of Abuse Prevention Order
Result: Client accused of texting ex-girlfriend in violation of restraining order. We proved the accuser initiated contact and was actually harassing our client. Criminal charge dismissed and restraining order modified to allow contact initiated by accuser.View All Case Results

Why Experience in Brookline District Court Matters

Every courthouse in Massachusetts operates differently. What works in Boston Municipal Court might not work in Brookline. What a Cambridge judge tolerates, a Brookline judge might punish harshly.

Patrick Donovan Knows Brookline District Court Inside and Out

As a former prosecutor, Patrick worked alongside many of the same assistant district attorneys now handling cases in Brookline. He knows:

• Which judges are strict on bail and which are more lenient
• Which prosecutors will negotiate early and which insist on going to trial
• How Brookline probation officers evaluate defendants during pre-trial interviews
• Which defenses work in front of which judges
• When to push for trial and when to negotiate a plea
• How to get cases dismissed before arraignment through clerk magistrate hearings

This institutional knowledge is impossible to replicate by reading statutes or watching other lawyers in court. It comes from years of actually working in the building, developing relationships, and understanding the unwritten rules that govern how cases are really resolved.

Real Example: Why Local Knowledge Matters

A client was charged with OUI in Brookline. The prosecutor offered a standard plea deal—guilty finding, 1-year probation, alcohol education program.

An inexperienced lawyer might have advised taking the deal. But Patrick knew this particular judge had recently ruled in favor of the defense in a similar case involving breathalyzer calibration issues. Patrick filed a motion to exclude the breathalyzer evidence, citing the recent ruling. The prosecutor, knowing the judge would likely suppress the evidence, dismissed the case entirely rather than proceed to trial without their key evidence.

The client walked away with no conviction, no probation, no criminal record—all because of knowing how that specific judge handles that specific issue.

What to Expect: The Brookline District Court Process

Understanding what happens at each stage helps you make better decisions and reduces anxiety about the unknown.

Stage 1: Arrest & Booking (Day 0)

What Happens: You’re arrested by Brookline Police, typically taken to Brookline Police Station at 350 Washington Street. You’ll be fingerprinted, photographed, and held in a cell until arraignment (usually the next business day).

What You Should Do:

• ✓ Politely refuse to answer questions without a lawyer
• ✓ Do not consent to searches
• ✓ Call Patrick Donovan immediately at (617) 479-1800
• ✓ Do not discuss your case with cellmates or other inmates

What Your Lawyer Does: Patrick can often contact the police station and DA’s office before arraignment to begin building your defense and negotiating for your release.

Stage 2: Arraignment (Day 1-3)

What Happens: Your first court appearance. You’ll stand before a judge who will read the charges, set bail/conditions of release, and schedule your next court date. This typically takes 5-15 minutes.

Critical Decisions Made:

• Bail amount (or personal recognizance release)
• GPS monitoring requirements
• No-contact orders
• Stay-away orders from certain locations
• Drug/alcohol testing requirements
• Curfews

What Your Lawyer Does: Argues for the least restrictive conditions possible, negotiates with prosecutors before you see the judge, and ensures you understand all conditions imposed.

Stage 3: Pre-Trial Conference (Weeks 4-8)

What Happens: Your lawyer meets with the prosecutor to discuss the case. This is where most cases are resolved—through dismissal, reduction of charges, or plea agreements.

What Your Lawyer Does:

• Reviews all evidence (police reports, videos, witness statements)
• Files motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence
• Identifies weaknesses in the prosecution’s case
• Negotiates for dismissal or reduced charges
• Evaluates whether trial or plea is in your best interest

Possible Outcomes: Case dismissed, charges reduced, plea agreement reached, or case scheduled for trial.

Stage 4: Motions & Pre-Trial Hearings (Months 2-6)

What Happens: If the case isn’t resolved at pre-trial, your lawyer files motions to exclude evidence, dismiss charges, or compel discovery. These hearings can result in critical evidence being thrown out.

Common Motions:

• Motion to Suppress (evidence obtained through illegal search/seizure)
• Motion to Dismiss (insufficient evidence, procedural errors)
• Motion for Discovery (forcing prosecution to turn over evidence)
• Motion in Limine (excluding certain evidence from trial)

Stage 5: Trial (Months 6-12)

What Happens: If your case goes to trial, you’ll have either a bench trial (judge decides) or jury trial (6-person jury in District Court). Most criminal trials last 1-3 days.

At trial, your lawyer will:

• Cross-examine prosecution witnesses
• Present defense witnesses and evidence
• Argue legal issues to the judge
• Give opening and closing statements
• Fight for a NOT GUILTY verdict

Possible Outcomes: Not guilty (case over, no record), guilty (sentencing), or hung jury (case may be retried).

Alternative Outcomes: Diversion & CWOF

Many cases can be resolved without trial or guilty pleas through:

• Pre-Trial Probation: Charges held without admission of guilt. If you complete conditions (community service, counseling, etc.), case is dismissed.
• Continuance Without a Finding (CWOF): You admit to sufficient facts but are not convicted. Complete probation terms and case is dismissed.
• Diversion Programs: Drug court, veteran’s court, or specialty programs that result in dismissal upon completion.

Patrick can evaluate whether you’re eligible for these outcomes and negotiate with prosecutors to secure them.

How Much Does a Brookline District Court Criminal Lawyer Cost?

This is one of the most common questions—and one of the most important. You need to know what you’re facing financially.

Typical Attorney Fee Structures

Flat Fees: Most criminal defense attorneys charge a flat fee that covers representation through trial. Fees vary based on:

• Severity of charges (misdemeanor vs. felony)
• Complexity of the case
• Whether trial is likely
• Number of court appearances required

General Fee Ranges:

• Misdemeanors (shoplifting, simple assault, possession): $2,500-$5,000
• OUI/DUI cases: $3,500-$7,500
• Felonies (drug distribution, serious assault): $5,000-$15,000+
• Murder/serious violent crimes: $25,000-$100,000+

Payment Plans: Patrick offers flexible payment plans for clients who cannot afford the full fee upfront. The goal is to ensure everyone has access to quality representation—not to price people out of a good defense.

Public Defender vs. Private Attorney

You may qualify for a public defender if your income is below certain limits (roughly $40,000-$50,000 annually depending on family size). Public defenders are capable attorneys, but they handle enormous caseloads—often 100+ active cases at once.

Benefits of hiring a private attorney:

• More time devoted to your specific case
• Greater availability for questions and updates
• Ability to investigate and hire experts
• Flexibility in scheduling and strategy

Free Consultation: Patrick offers a free initial consultation to discuss your case, evaluate your options, and provide an honest fee quote. There’s no obligation—just honest advice about what you’re facing and what it will cost to defend yourself.

Call (617) 479-1800 for a Free Consultation

Frequently Asked Questions About Brookline District Court

Do I really need a lawyer for Brookline District Court?

Yes—absolutely. Even “minor” charges can result in permanent criminal records, jail time, probation, and collateral consequences like losing your job, housing, or professional licenses.

People who represent themselves almost always make critical mistakes:

• They unknowingly waive important constitutional rights
• They make statements that hurt their case
• They miss filing deadlines for motions that could get evidence suppressed
• They don’t know when prosecutors are offering bad deals
• They accept plea agreements without understanding the full consequences

The cost of a lawyer is almost always less than the cost of a conviction.

Can my case be dismissed before trial?

Yes—many cases are dismissed before trial. Common reasons include:

• Illegal searches or arrests: Evidence obtained in violation of your constitutional rights must be suppressed. Without that evidence, prosecutors often can’t prove their case.
• Witness problems: Key witnesses refuse to testify, can’t be located, or have credibility issues.
• Insufficient evidence: The evidence simply doesn’t prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
• Procedural errors: Police or prosecutors made mistakes that require dismissal.
• Diversion eligibility: First-time offenders may qualify for programs that result in dismissal upon completion.

Patrick reviews every case for dismissal opportunities before considering plea negotiations or trial.

What if I miss my Brookline court date?

A warrant will be issued for your arrest immediately. Missing court—called “failure to appear” or “defaulting”—is taken very seriously. Once a warrant is issued:

• You can be arrested at any time (traffic stop, at home, at work)
• Bail will likely be set much higher
• Judges are far less lenient when you eventually appear
• Additional charges may be filed

If you missed your court date: Call Patrick immediately at (617) 479-1800. He can often file a motion to recall the warrant and get you a new court date without you being arrested. But time is critical—the longer you wait, the worse your situation becomes.

How long will my case take?

Timeline varies significantly based on:

• Misdemeanors: 3-6 months on average
• Felonies: 6-18 months (sometimes longer for complex cases)
• Cases that go to trial: Often 8-12 months
• Cases resolved early: Sometimes dismissed at arraignment or first pre-trial

Patrick pushes cases forward aggressively. Prosecutors and courts have heavy caseloads—having a lawyer who stays on top of deadlines and pushes for resolution is critical.

What are the penalties if I’m convicted?

Penalties depend on the specific charge and your criminal history. General ranges:

Misdemeanors:

• Up to 2.5 years in jail (most don’t result in jail time)
• Probation (typically 6 months to 2 years)
• Fines and fees ($500-$5,000+)
• Restitution to victims
• Community service
• Counseling or treatment programs

Felonies:

• State prison sentences (2-20+ years depending on crime)
• Lengthy probation
• Large fines ($10,000-$50,000+)
• Loss of gun rights
• Immigration consequences for non-citizens

Collateral Consequences: Beyond the sentence, convictions can result in:

• Difficulty finding employment
• Loss of professional licenses
• Eviction from housing
• Loss of financial aid for students
• Deportation for non-citizens
• Loss of custody or visitation rights

This is why fighting the charges—not just accepting whatever prosecutors offer—is so important.

Should I talk to the police?

No. Exercise your right to remain silent.

Police are trained interrogators. Their job is to gather evidence to convict you—not to help you or “hear your side.” Anything you say will be used against you, even if you think you’re helping your case.

Common mistakes people make:

• “I was just explaining what happened” → Your “explanation” becomes evidence
• “I was trying to cooperate” → Cooperation doesn’t prevent charges
• “I thought if I talked they’d let me go” → They won’t
• “I didn’t want to look guilty” → Silence is not evidence of guilt

What to say: “I want to speak with my lawyer. I’m exercising my right to remain silent.” Then stop talking and call Patrick at (617) 479-1800.

What should I do before my first court appearance?

1. Hire a lawyer immediately – Don’t wait until you’re standing in the courtroom

2. Do not discuss your case – Not on social media, not with friends, not with family. Anything you say can be discovered and used as evidence.

3. Gather helpful documents:

• Employment records / pay stubs
• Proof of residence (lease, mortgage, utility bills)
• Character letters from employers, teachers, community members
• Medical records (if relevant to your defense)
• Any photos, videos, or documents related to the incident

4. Dress appropriately – Business casual at minimum. First impressions matter to judges.

5. Arrive early – Get there by 8:30 AM to meet with your lawyer before court begins at 9:00 AM.

6. Turn off your phone – Phones ringing in court anger judges. Some courtrooms don’t allow phones at all.

Can I get my record sealed or expunged?

Yes—Massachusetts allows sealing of criminal records in many cases.

Dismissals: If your case is dismissed, you can petition to seal the record immediately.

Convictions: Misdemeanor convictions can typically be sealed 3 years after the case ends (or after probation ends). Felony convictions can be sealed after 7 years.

Some convictions cannot be sealed: Sex offenses and certain violent crimes.

Patrick can evaluate whether you’re eligible for record sealing and handle the petition process.

What if the alleged victim doesn’t want to press charges?

Unfortunately, it doesn’t matter. Only the prosecutor—not the victim—decides whether to file charges.

This is especially common in domestic violence cases. Even if the alleged victim recants, doesn’t want prosecution, or refuses to cooperate, prosecutors often proceed anyway using:

• Police officer testimony
• 911 call recordings
• Photos of alleged injuries
• Prior statements the victim made to police

However, an uncooperative victim significantly weakens the prosecution’s case. Patrick can use this to negotiate dismissals or reduced charges.

Will I go to jail if convicted?

It depends. Many misdemeanors result in probation, not jail—especially for first-time offenders. However, some charges carry mandatory minimum sentences, and judges have broad discretion in sentencing.

Factors judges consider:

• Severity of the crime
• Your criminal history (first offense vs. repeat offender)
• Whether anyone was injured
• Your employment and family situation
• Your willingness to comply with conditions (counseling, treatment, etc.)
• Letters of support from family, employers, community members

Patrick’s goal is always to avoid jail time when possible—through dismissal, reduced charges, or alternative sentencing options.

Domestic Violence Cases in Brookline District Court: What You Need to Know

Domestic violence cases are among the most serious matters handled in Brookline District Court. These cases carry severe penalties and are prosecuted aggressively—even when the alleged victim does not want charges filed.

Why Domestic Violence Cases Are Different

Unlike other criminal charges, domestic violence cases trigger automatic consequences:

• 209A Restraining Orders: Victims can obtain restraining orders that ban you from your home, your children, and any contact with the accuser—often before you’re even convicted.
• Mandatory Batterer’s Intervention: Convictions require completing a certified batterer’s program (40 weeks, weekly classes).
• Gun Rights: Domestic violence convictions result in permanent loss of gun licenses.
• Immigration: Non-citizens face deportation for domestic violence convictions.
• Child Custody: Domestic violence findings can be used against you in family court.

Common Domestic Violence Charges in Brookline

Assault & Battery on a Family or Household Member (A&B FHM): The most common domestic violence charge. “Family or household member” includes:

• Current or former spouses
• Current or former dating partners
• Parents of your children
• Relatives by blood or marriage
• Roommates or household members

Penalties: Up to 2.5 years in jail, mandatory batterer’s program, probation, restraining orders.

Violation of 209A Restraining Order: If you’re subject to a restraining order and violate its terms—even by accident—you can be arrested immediately. Violations include:

• Going to places you’re ordered to avoid (your home, the accuser’s workplace, etc.)
• Contacting the accuser (calls, texts, emails, social media)
• Contacting the accuser through third parties
• Being in the same location as the accuser, even by coincidence

Penalties: Up to 2.5 years in jail for first offense; mandatory minimum jail time for subsequent offenses.

How Patrick Defends Domestic Violence Cases

Domestic violence accusations often arise from:

• False allegations made during contentious breakups or custody disputes
• Exaggerated claims where minor contact is portrayed as assault
• Mutual combat where both parties were fighting
• Self-defense situations where you were protecting yourself
• Third-party involvement where children, friends, or family encouraged false reporting

Defense strategies include:

• Challenging witness credibility through prior inconsistent statements
• Presenting text messages, emails, and social media evidence showing the accuser’s motive to lie
• Medical expert testimony questioning injury claims
• Character witnesses testifying to your non-violent nature
• Proving you were not the aggressor

209A Restraining Order Hearings

Restraining order hearings happen quickly—often within 10 days of the order being issued. At this hearing, the accuser must prove by a preponderance of the evidence (more likely than not) that you:

• Caused or attempted to cause physical harm, or
• Placed them in fear of imminent serious physical harm

Why you need a lawyer at this hearing: Restraining orders can last for years and significantly impact your life. Patrick can cross-examine the accuser, present contradictory evidence, and argue against extending the order.

Important: Anything you say at a restraining order hearing can be used against you in the related criminal case. Having a lawyer who understands both proceedings is critical.

Facing domestic violence charges or a restraining order? Time is critical. Early intervention can make the difference between dismissal and a conviction that follows you for life.Call (617) 479-1800 Immediately

Don’t Face Brookline District Court Alone

Criminal charges are serious. The consequences—jail, probation, criminal records, loss of employment, housing problems, immigration issues—can follow you for years or even permanently.

But having the right lawyer changes everything.

Patrick Donovan has spent his career defending people charged with crimes. As a former prosecutor, he knows how the other side thinks, what evidence they need, and when their case is weak. He’s appeared in Brookline District Court hundreds of times and has built relationships with judges, prosecutors, and court staff that benefit his clients.

Most importantly, he fights. Many lawyers see criminal defense as a business—get the client to plead guilty, collect a fee, move on. Patrick sees every case as an opportunity to protect someone’s future, their freedom, and their reputation.

Free Consultation – No Obligation

Patrick offers a free, confidential consultation to discuss your case. You’ll get honest answers about:

• What charges you’re facing and what they mean
• Possible defenses and outcomes
• What to expect at your court date
• How much representation will cost
• Whether you should fight the charges or negotiate a resolution

No pressure. No sales pitch. Just straight talk about your situation and your options.

📞 Call (617) 479-1800

Available 24/7 – Nights, Weekends, Holidays

Your arraignment could be tomorrow. Don’t wait.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Brookline District Court