Defending Violent Crimes in Massachusetts.
Facing a violent crime charge in Massachusetts can have life-altering consequences. At Benzaken, Sheehan & Wood, LLP, our experienced Massachusetts criminal defense lawyers provide aggressive, strategic representation to protect your rights, reputation, and future.
M.G.L. c. 265, §1
Trial-ready in every Superior Court session.
Homicide is among the most serious charges in the Commonwealth.
A conviction for first-degree murder under M.G.L. c. 265, §1 carries a mandatory sentence of life without the possibility of parole. Second-degree murder, voluntary and involuntary manslaughter, and motor vehicle homicide each carry their own devastating consequences for freedom, employment, and family.
Our Brockton criminal defense lawyers handle the full range of homicide and violent crime allegations — from premeditated murder and felony murder to manslaughter by OUI and reckless conduct cases. Every defense begins with a meticulous investigation of the Commonwealth's evidence.
From manslaughter to first-degree murder.
Our Brockton criminal defense lawyers handle the most serious violent crime charges in Massachusetts — including premeditated killings, felony murder, intentional killings without premeditation, killings in the heat of passion, and deaths caused by reckless or impaired driving.
First-Degree Murder
Premeditated killing or felony murder under M.G.L. c. 265, §1 — punishable by life without the possibility of parole.
Second-Degree Murder
Intentional killing without premeditation, carrying a life sentence with parole eligibility after a lengthy term.
Voluntary Manslaughter
Killings committed in the heat of passion or upon sudden provocation — defending mitigation and self-defense theories.
Involuntary Manslaughter
Deaths caused by wanton or reckless conduct posing a high degree of risk of serious harm.
Motor Vehicle Homicide by OUI
Deaths arising from operation under the influence — felony exposure, mandatory minimums, and license revocation.
Negligent Motor Vehicle Homicide
Fatalities caused by negligent operation of a motor vehicle, charged as misdemeanor or felony depending on facts.
Felony Murder & Joint Venture
Defending clients alleged to have participated in a felony resulting in death, including joint venture liability.
Post-Conviction & Appeals
Appellate review, motions for new trial, and post-conviction relief in homicide and violent crime cases.
Massachusetts imposes some of the toughest penalties in the country.
A conviction can permanently impact your freedom, employment, and relationships — making experienced legal representation critical from the very first hour.
A defense built before the first court date.
With decades of experience defending the most serious cases in the Commonwealth, our firm engages forensic pathologists, accident reconstructionists, ballistics experts, and investigators from the earliest moments of a homicide investigation — often before a single charge is filed.
Each homicide case is treated as if it will be tried before a jury. From bail and pretrial motion practice through verdict and appeal, our partners personally lead every file.
- Aggressive representation in and out of court
- Comprehensive case preparation and expert analysis
- Personalized legal strategies tailored to your case
- Partner-led representation from the first phone call
Preparation Wins Cases
Every homicide file built for trial from day one.
We represent clients at every stage of a Massachusetts homicide case.
Pre-Charge Investigation
We move immediately — engaging investigators, forensic experts, and witnesses before charges are filed to shape the narrative early.
Arraignment & Bail
Homicide cases often involve no-bail or high-bail postures. We fight for the most favorable conditions of release possible.
Discovery & Motion Practice
Aggressive litigation of suppression motions, forensic challenges, and Daubert/Lanigan hearings to weaken the Commonwealth's case.
Trial & Beyond
Every homicide file is built for jury trial. When the Commonwealth refuses a fair resolution, we are ready to try the case.
Contact a Massachusetts Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you or a loved one faces violent crime charges, our Brockton criminal defense lawyers are ready to defend your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.
Real attorneys.
One call away.
When the call comes in, you speak with a partner not a screener. Every consultation is confidential, and we respond to every inquiry, typically within hours.
Brockton, MA 02301
After-hours by appointment