Springfield, Massachusetts, Criminal Defense Lawyer
A criminal arrest can be very overwhelming, especially if you've never faced the Massachusetts criminal justice system. You likely have questions about your rights, the criminal law process, and the progression of your case.
At the Law Office of John P. McKenna, P.C., we provide aggressive criminal defense representation in Western Massachusetts. We have compiled an impressive track record for criminal matters; we can effectively protect your rights and interests. Attorney McKenna has taught hundreds of local law enforcement officials in the disciplines in the areas of criminal law, criminal procedure and evidence. These officials are members of the U.S. Marshalls, Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) Massachusetts State Police, Springfield Police Department, Holyoke Police Department, West Springfield Police Department, Chicopee Police, Ware Police Department, Palmer Police Department, Northampton Police Department, Wilbraham Police Department and numerous other departments.
Through his teaching and District Attorney’s Office experience, Attorney McKenna has developed specific legal strategies which benefit his clients and oftentimes result in obtaining successful outcomes in all phases of the court proceedings. Please see our successful results in the case results portion of our website.
In addition, Attorney McKenna represents students from numerous local colleges and universities, including University of Massachusetts, Amherst College, Hampshire College, Springfield College, Western New England College and other local schools.
Contact our offices today to schedule a confidential consultation and case evaluation.
What You Need to Know Following an Arrest
If you have been arrested or charged for a crime, you have a right to speak to an attorney and to be represented by an attorney. Our criminal defense attorney can effectively advise you and help you understand your rights.
The process can be complex and complicated, but the basic outline of most criminal matters involves the following:
- Show Cause/Clerk's Hearing: This is the first opportunity to challenge the arrest. From the very beginning, we work to invalidate the evidence and the case against you, and we have a strong record of success in the cases we have handled. If a judge determines there is insufficient evidence or probable cause to move forward, the case will be dismissed without charges being placed on your criminal record. Therefore, early intervention is essential.
- Arraignment: Your initial appearance in court before a judge will occur within the first few business days following the arrest. The judge will read the charges to you and you will have the opportunity to enter a plea.
- Pre-trial Conference: We can effectively negotiate with the district attorney handling your case at the pre-trial conference. As a former assistant district attorney, John P. McKenna understands how prosecutors operate, enhancing his ability to provide knowledgeable advice regarding any plea bargains offered.
- Motions to Suppress: Far too frequently, police officers violate people’s constitutional rights to secure evidence. We will investigate all aspects of your case to uncover any such violations. Evidence obtained in violation of your rights may be withheld from court through a motion to suppress evidence. This can be especially effective in defending against drug charges or OUI/DUI/DWI.
- Criminal Trial: If the case is not dismissed or you decide to proceed to trial, we will vigorously advocate for you at trial. We have taken more than 200 cases to trial, always using our intense investigation and thorough preparation to create a solid defense.
Protect Your Rights -- Contact a Lawyer Now!
The time following an arrest will go quickly, as will the window of opportunity to strategize and prepare your defense. Therefore, it is critical that you consult an experienced criminal defense lawyer immediately. Contact our law firm today.
Springfield Criminal Defense Lawyer
Massachusetts Criminal Law Attorney
