1. Rudolf, Smith, Griffis & Ruggieri, LLP
Focus Area: Criminal defense with 70+ years combined experience and trial-tested advocacy
Practice Areas: DUI/OUI, drug crimes, assault and battery, domestic violence, federal crimes, civil litigation, family law
Background: The firm of Rudolf, Smith, Griffis & Ruggieri, LLP opened its doors over 12 years ago, and brought together attorneys with a combined 70 years of experience. Clients get the additional benefit of having a deep and talented team of legal staff working on their case. When you work with Rudolf, Smith, Griffis & Ruggieri, LLP you can get more than one experienced lawyer. You get the whole team fighting for you. That kind of experienced team effort is what it takes. A successful outcome in any case depends on diligent investigation into the details of a case. The attorneys know the value of examining evidence, hiring investigators, and interviewing witnesses. They can go to court on your behalf at any moment. They purposely limit their caseload to make sure clients receive one-on-one attention. They serve people throughout Worcester, Middlesex, and Hampden counties.
Location: Worcester County, Massachusetts
Contact: (508) 425-6330 | https://mvsllp.com/
Consultation: Free consultation available; Hablamos Español
2. Law Office of Shane W. Surrette
Focus Area: Criminal defense with former prosecutor experience and thousands of cases handled
Practice Areas: DUI/OUI, drug crimes, assault, domestic violence, sex crimes, theft, violent crimes
Background: Attorney Shane W. Surrette was born and raised in Worcester County and has been practicing law since 2003. Upon graduating cum laude from the New England School of Law in Boston in the top 7.5% of his class, he worked at the Middle District Attorney’s office and prosecuted criminal cases for several years in the District, Juvenile and Superior Courts. He draws from this extensive courtroom experience to protect clients’ rights to justice and due process. He has successfully handled thousands of criminal cases and has tried several hundred jury trials. His track record includes dismissal of charges, acquittals, not guilty jury verdicts, reduction of charges and penalties, alternative sentencing and probation. The criminal justice system operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and so does his office. Clients can reach him at any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including Sundays and holidays. No client is ever left alone to deal with the authorities.
Location: Worcester, Massachusetts
Contact: (774) 479-3005 | https://www.swslawoffice.com/
Consultation: Free consultation available; available 24/7
3. Criminal Defense Attorney Darren Griffis
Focus Area: Criminal defense with former public defender and white-collar crime experience
Practice Areas: Drug crimes, theft, assault, domestic violence, white-collar crimes, shoplifting, federal crimes
Background: Before establishing his private practice, Darren was a public defender, gaining firsthand experience defending clients in high-stakes situations. He also previously worked at a prestigious international law firm in Boston, handling complex white-collar crime cases and large-scale investigations. This diverse background gives him valuable insight into both sides of the legal system, from the prosecution’s tactics to the defense’s strategies. With years of trial experience, Darren knows how to exploit weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and strengthen his clients’ defenses. His knowledge of how evidence is gathered and presented allows him to create opportunities for more favorable outcomes. Whether you’re facing a serious felony or a lesser charge, Darren Griffis will leverage his skills and experience to protect your rights and future. Massachusetts has made changes to its criminal justice system, such as adjusting the bail system, removing some mandatory minimums, and introducing new diversion programs.
Location: 446 Main Street, Suite 1503, Worcester, MA 01608
Contact: (774) 420-9976 | https://worcestercriminaldefense.com/
Consultation: Free consultation available
4. Worcester Law Group
Focus Area: Criminal defense with Top 100 Trial Lawyer and Top 40 Under 40 recognition
Practice Areas: DUI/OUI, drug crimes, assault and battery, fraud, juvenile crimes, theft, firearm charges
Background: As a Worcester based law firm they have vast experience appearing before and understanding the local rules and procedures. They combine this Worcester Court trial experience with analysis of relevant case law and thorough research of opponents to give effective and aggressive trial representation that you can count on. In fact, John Elloian was nominated as one of the Top 100 Trial Lawyers and a Top 40 under 40 in Massachusetts by the National Trial Lawyers Association. Worcester Law Group focuses exclusively on two areas of law: Criminal Defense and Landlord Law. Worcester Law Group has nearly a decade of experience successfully representing clients in criminal defense and landlord cases. They believe that in order to provide the service to clients they need to limit attention to those two areas to obtain a deep understanding of both. Attorney John Elloian serves the Worcester County and Middlesex County regions including Shrewsbury, Auburn, Grafton, Westborough, Marlborough, Northborough, Southborough, Boylston, West Boylston, Holden, Leominster, Paxton, Sutton, Millbury, Upton, Oxford, Fitchburg, and Northbridge.
Location: Worcester, Massachusetts
Contact: (508) 752-2400 | https://worcesterlawgroup.com/
Consultation: Free consultation available
5. Burke Levy, P.C.
Focus Area: Criminal defense with 40+ years combined experience and former prosecution background
Practice Areas: DUI/OUI, drug crimes, violent crimes, domestic violence, sex crimes, juvenile crimes, federal crimes
Background: If your freedom is at risk because of pending criminal charges in Worcester County, you need the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney who will aggressively protect your rights. At Burke Levy, P.C., the criminal defense lawyers utilize 40+ years of combined experience, thorough case preparation, a track record of success, and total 24/7 personal service to safeguard your interests. Whether you have been arrested for a violent crime, or your son or daughter has juvenile law issues, the criminal defense lawyers protect the rights of clients locally and statewide. They understand the challenges you face, including harsh, life-changing punishments if you are convicted of a crime. The criminal defense team has seen the justice system work from both perspectives, having each served as both defense and prosecution. They have fast response times and keep you updated, with over 400 trials successfully handled in the courtroom.
Location: Worcester County, Massachusetts
Contact: (508) 802-4546 | https://www.burkelevylaw.com/
Consultation: Initial consultation available
Criminal Defense Laws in Massachusetts
Felony Classifications
Massachusetts does not use a traditional class system for felonies. Instead, penalties are set by specific statute:
Murder: First-degree murder carries life imprisonment without parole. Second-degree murder carries life imprisonment with parole eligibility after 15 years.
Major Felonies: Penalties vary by statute. Armed robbery carries up to life imprisonment. Rape carries up to 20 years imprisonment.
Drug Trafficking: Penalties depend on substance and quantity. Trafficking in cocaine (18-36 grams) carries 2-15 years mandatory minimum.
Misdemeanor Classifications
Massachusetts misdemeanors are punishable by up to 2.5 years in a house of correction.
Common Misdemeanors: Simple assault and battery (up to 2.5 years), larceny under $1,200 (up to 1 year), disorderly conduct (up to 6 months).
CWOF and Pretrial Diversion
Continuance Without a Finding (CWOF): A disposition where the defendant admits to sufficient facts but no guilty finding is entered. Upon successful completion of probation, the case is dismissed. Available for many first-time offenders.
Pretrial Diversion: Available for certain first-time offenders. Completion results in dismissal.
Sealing and Expungement
Sealing: Available for most convictions after waiting periods (3 years for misdemeanors, 7 years for felonies from conviction or release). Sealed records are hidden from most background checks but accessible to law enforcement.
Expungement: Available only in limited circumstances (identity fraud, juvenile cases, offenses decriminalized after conviction). Creates a legal fiction that the case never occurred.
OUI Laws
Massachusetts OUI (Operating Under the Influence) applies to driving with BAC of .08% or higher (.04% commercial, .02% under 21). First offense carries up to 2.5 years jail, $500-$5,000 fine, 1-year license suspension, and alcohol education program. Second offense within 10 years carries 60 days to 2.5 years jail, $600-$10,000 fine, 2-year license suspension, and ignition interlock. Third offense is a felony with 180 days to 5 years state prison, $1,000-$15,000 fine, and 8-year license suspension.
Frequently Asked Questions
What courts handle criminal cases in Worcester?
Criminal cases in Worcester are handled by multiple courts depending on the offense. Worcester District Court handles misdemeanors and felony probable cause hearings. Worcester Superior Court handles felony trials. The Worcester Juvenile Court handles cases involving minors. Federal criminal cases are handled by the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts. The Worcester District Court is located on Main Street in downtown Worcester. Having a Worcester criminal defense attorney familiar with local judges and prosecutors provides an advantage in navigating your case.
What is a Continuance Without a Finding (CWOF)?
A CWOF is a disposition unique to Massachusetts where the defendant admits to sufficient facts to warrant a finding of guilty, but the court continues the case without entering a guilty finding. The defendant is placed on probation with conditions. Upon successful completion of probation, the case is dismissed. A CWOF is not a conviction for most purposes but may be considered a conviction for immigration purposes and certain professional licensing. A CWOF can later be sealed. A Worcester criminal defense attorney can negotiate for a CWOF disposition in appropriate cases.
What are the penalties for drug possession in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts reformed drug laws significantly in recent years. Possession of a controlled substance (Class A-E) is punishable by up to 2 years imprisonment for a first offense. Possession of marijuana (1 oz or less) is decriminalized for adults 21+ and legal for recreational use. Possession with intent to distribute carries enhanced penalties. Drug diversion programs may be available for first-time offenders. A Worcester criminal defense attorney can evaluate eligibility for diversion programs and alternative sentencing.
What happens if I am charged with OUI in Worcester County?
An OUI charge in Worcester County carries serious consequences. First offense carries up to 2.5 years jail, $500-$5,000 fine, 1-year license suspension, and mandatory alcohol education program. A 24D disposition (alternative disposition for first offenders) may result in probation, reduced license suspension (45-90 days with hardship license eligibility), and alcohol education. Second offense within 10 years carries mandatory 60 days jail (30 days may be served in inpatient treatment), $600-$10,000 fine, and 2-year license suspension. Massachusetts has an implied consent law. A Worcester criminal defense attorney can challenge the traffic stop, field sobriety tests, and breathalyzer results.
Can I get my Massachusetts criminal record sealed?
Massachusetts allows sealing of most criminal records after waiting periods. Waiting periods are 3 years for misdemeanors and 7 years for felonies (measured from conviction or release from incarceration). Sex offenses requiring registration and certain firearms offenses are not eligible. The effect of sealing is that records are hidden from most background checks but remain accessible to law enforcement and certain employers (schools, healthcare, law enforcement). Recent reforms allow for earlier sealing of certain drug convictions and restorative justice dispositions. A Worcester criminal defense attorney can evaluate eligibility and file the appropriate petition.