Why Early Representation Matters

The moment you are arrested, the clock starts ticking. Evidence preservation, arrest-to-arraignment strategy, protecting your rights, and plea bargaining leverage all depend on having counsel from day one. Contact Sofio Law immediately if you are facing charges.

OUI / DUI Defense

A first OUI conviction in Massachusetts carries a license suspension of 45 days to one year, fines of $500 to $5,000, potential jail time, mandatory substance abuse programs, and probation. A second OUI within 10 years escalates to mandatory minimums. A third offense is a felony with mandatory minimum jail sentences.

Attorney Sofio examines every element: Was the stop lawful? Were field sobriety tests administered per NHTSA standards? Was the breathalyzer properly calibrated? For first-time offenders, a continuance without a finding (CWOF) may avoid a conviction entirely.

Drug Offenses

Drug charges range from simple possession to trafficking. Possession with intent to distribute is inferred from quantity, scales, cash, and packaging. Trafficking carries mandatory minimums of 10 to 20 or more years. If the search was unlawful, evidence may be suppressed and the case dismissed. For first-time offenders, diversion programs may avoid a criminal conviction entirely.

Assault and Battery

Simple assault and battery can result in up to 2.5 years in jail and a $1,000 fine. Aggravated assault and battery is a felony with up to 10 years. Attorney Sofio investigates self-defense, mutual combat, and witness credibility, challenging the Commonwealth's evidence at every stage.

Domestic Violence and 209A Orders

Domestic violence charges can trigger both a criminal case and a 209A restraining order that removes you from your home, restricts contact with your children, and affects your firearm rights. A 209A hearing can happen within days of an incident. Attorney Sofio coordinates both proceedings simultaneously.

Firearms and Weapons Charges

Massachusetts has among the strictest gun laws in the country. Unlicensed firearm possession carries a mandatory minimum sentence. Many firearms cases turn on constitutional search-and-seizure issues. If the search was unlawful, evidence may be suppressed.

Juvenile Defense

Massachusetts juvenile law focuses on rehabilitation. For many juvenile cases, diversion programs or community service can resolve matters outside court entirely. For serious charges at risk of adult court transfer, Attorney Sofio fights to keep the case in juvenile court.

Probation Violations

Violations are proven by preponderance of the evidence, a lower bar than at trial. For technical violations, Attorney Sofio negotiates with the probation department for disposition without revocation. For more serious violations, the focus is on rehabilitation narratives and proposed modifications to conditions.

Record Sealing and Expungement

Massachusetts allows sealing of adult misdemeanor convictions after five years and felonies after ten years. Dismissed cases can often be expunged immediately. Attorney Sofio files petitions and advises on disclosure obligations to employers and licensing boards.

Key Courts in Plymouth County

Hingham District Court serves Rockland, Hingham, Norwell, Scituate, Hull, and Cohasset. Brockton District Court serves Brockton, Abington, Whitman, and Bridgewater. Plymouth District Court serves Plymouth, Kingston, Duxbury, Pembroke, and Carver. Plymouth Superior Court handles serious felonies and jury trials for all of Plymouth County.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I talk to police without an attorney?

No. Exercise your right to remain silent and your right to counsel immediately. Silence cannot be used against you at trial. Statements can.

What is a CWOF?

A continuance without a finding lets you avoid a conviction. You admit to sufficient facts, the case is continued for a probationary period, and if you comply with all conditions the case is dismissed with no conviction on your record.

Can I refuse a breathalyzer?

Yes, but refusal triggers its own license suspension under Massachusetts implied consent law. Refusal cases often give your attorney strategic advantages since there is no breath test result in evidence.

Can a conviction be sealed?

Yes. Misdemeanors can be sealed after 5 years, felonies after 10 years. Dismissed cases can often be expunged immediately.

Contact Sofio Law

Facing criminal charges in Plymouth County? Contact Sofio Law LLC immediately. Attorney Jessica R. Sofio has the courtroom experience, local relationships, and aggressive approach your case demands.

Sofio Law provides strong, compassionate representation for individuals across the South Shore area of Massachusetts facing criminal charges or navigating the complexities of the juvenile justice system. We understand the profound impact these cases can have on you or your child’s life and future, and Attorney Sofio is committed to fervently protecting your rights every step of the way. Our firm offers a client-focused, non-judgmental environment where you can feel heard and supported, whether we’re negotiating for the best possible outcome or fighting vigorously in court. We handle matters for both adults and minors, delivering tailored strategies to achieve the best results for you and your family.

Our representation at Sofio Law extends beyond criminal defense to encompass related civil matters, including general litigation, and often includes school-related issues for minors. For adults facing charges like DUI or theft, we provide robust defenses through plea negotiations, trials, or appeals, while also addressing any overlapping civil disputes. For juveniles, we focus on diversion programs, rehabilitation, and school advocacy—such as IEP disputes or disciplinary hearings—to safeguard their future. With a deep understanding of Massachusetts’ legal systems, we work tirelessly to protect your interests, offering expungement assistance and counsel on post-conviction options to help you move forward with confidence.

If you’ve been arrested or are facing a criminal charge, contact Sofio Law immediately to schedule a free consultation —understanding and exercising your rights as soon as possible is critical.

We at Sofio Law believe you should understand and assert your rights without delay, as many people mistakenly cooperate with police, thinking they have nothing to hide, only to inadvertently incriminate themselves. Allowing Attorney Sofio to communicate on your behalf is your best option to prevent missteps, ensuring you fully grasp your rights and the intentions of law enforcement. Serving the South Shore from Brockton, Braintree, to Rockland areas, our firm combines legal expertise with unwavering support, standing as your dedicated advocate in every criminal and juvenile law matter.