Assault and Battery

Dedicated Massachusetts Juvenile Defense Lawyer Defending the Future and Freedom of Minors Charged with Serious Crimes

If your child has been accused of assault and battery in Massachusetts, you’re likely feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, and unsure of what to do next. At The Law Office of Patrick J. Murphy, we understand how serious these charges can be—especially when they involve a juvenile. As a trusted Boston juvenile violent crime lawyer, Attorney Murphy has helped many families protect their child’s future and fight back against harsh or unfair allegations.

What Is Juvenile Assault and Battery in Massachusetts?

In juvenile court, assault and battery means the same thing as it does for adults: either an attempt to cause physical harm or actual unwanted physical contact. These charges fall under Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 265, § 13A. The law doesn’t require serious injury—a push, shove, or slap may be enough for a charge. That’s what makes these cases so common in school fights, sports-related scuffles, or arguments that get out of hand.

Common Situations That Lead to Charges

Juveniles may be charged with assault and battery for:

• School fights or physical altercations with classmates
• Domestic incidents involving parents or siblings
• Conflicts during dating relationships
• Scuffles with teachers, coaches, or other authority figures
• Group fights where the alleged aggressor is unclear

Even if your child didn’t start the fight—or acted in self-defense—police may still file charges.

The Stakes Are Higher Than You Think

While juvenile court focuses more on rehabilitation than punishment, the consequences of an assault and battery charge are still significant. Your child may face:

• Probation and mandatory counseling
• Community service requirements
• Placement in a Department of Youth Services (DYS) facility
• Long-term effects on education, job prospects, and housing

Once your child is involved in the system, future allegations—no matter how minor—can carry greater weight. It’s important to push back early.

Is It Assault or Assault and Battery?

These are often charged together but are technically separate:

• Assault is either a physical attempt to harm someone or an act that causes fear of imminent harm.
• Assault and battery involves actual unwanted physical contact.

Understanding the distinction matters, especially when it comes to defenses and the prosecutor’s burden of proof.

Possible Defenses to Juvenile Assault and Battery

Every case is different, but some of the most effective legal defenses include:

• Self-defense: If your child was defending themselves or someone else, they may be legally justified in their actions.
• Accident: Juveniles are impulsive and may not have intended harm. If the contact was accidental, charges may be dismissed.
• False accusations: Teen conflicts sometimes lead to exaggerated claims or fabricated stories. A good lawyer will scrutinize all statements and surveillance footage.
• Lack of sufficient evidence: The state must prove every element of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt. If they can’t, the case may fall apart.

Attorney Murphy will work to identify the best path forward for your child, including diversion programs, pretrial probation, or outright dismissal when possible.

What to Expect in Juvenile Court

Juvenile court is different from adult court in both tone and process. Your child won’t face a jury trial, and the records are typically sealed. Still, that doesn’t mean the process is informal. The court takes these allegations seriously and will expect your child—and you as a parent—to be engaged and cooperative.

With the right legal strategy, it’s possible to resolve the case in a way that avoids long-term consequences and keeps your child on track.

Related Offenses

Assault and battery charges are sometimes filed alongside:

• Assault with a dangerous weapon
• Intimidation of a witness
• Threats to commit a crime
• Disorderly conduct
• Malicious destruction of property

If your child is facing multiple allegations, Attorney Murphy can help assess the bigger picture and defend them on all fronts.

Protect Your Child’s Future Before It’s Too Late

Juvenile assault and battery charges can derail your child’s education, goals, and opportunities—but with early intervention, there’s hope. As a Boston juvenile violent crime lawyer with decades of experience, Attorney Patrick J. Murphy is ready to step in and protect your child’s rights. To schedule a confidential consultation, call (617) 367-0450 or contact the firm online today.