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Criminal Defense Attorneys in Massachusetts

Criminal defense attorneys defend people who have been charged with crimes, often in situations where the charges stem from police misconduct, false arrests, or government overreach. If you believe you were wrongfully charged or that your rights were violated during your arrest or prosecution, a criminal defense attorney can challenge the government's case and fight for your freedom.

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Zalkind Duncan & Bernstein, LLPLaw Firm

Zalkind Duncan & Bernstein, LLP

📍Boston, MA
⚖️

Civil Rights · Criminal Defense · False Arrest · Fourth Amendment · Malicious Prosecution · Police Brutality · Police Misconduct · Prison Reform · Wrongful Conviction · Wrongful Death

Zalkind Duncan & Bernstein, LLP is a Boston-based civil rights and criminal defense law firm with a longstanding reputation for holding government actors and law enforcement accountable. Founded by attorneys with deep ro... Read More →

State Filing Deadlines & Legal Limits

For general reference only — not legal advice. Deadlines may vary based on facts and should be verified with an attorney.

Civil Rights & Personal Injury3 years

Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 260, § 2A

Federal § 1983 civil rights claims borrow the state personal injury statute of limitations.

Notice of Claim Against GovernmentNo general requirement

Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 258, § 4

A presentment of claim to the executive officer of the public employer is required. The public employer then has 6 months to act before suit may be brought.

Qualified ImmunityLimited by State Law

An Act Relative to Justice, Equity and Accountability in Law Enforcement (2020) — Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 6E

Massachusetts enacted landmark police accountability legislation in 2020 establishing a Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Commission and expanding accountability mechanisms. The federal QI doctrine continues to apply to § 1983 claims, but state-level reforms have broadened oversight.