Blog | Geraghty Law, LLC

Understanding Field Sobriety Tests in Worcester

Posted on March 13, 2026

Field sobriety tests are roadside exercises police use in Worcester to decide whether they believe a driver is impaired, but failing these tests does not automatically mean you are intoxicated or guilty of a crime. These tests are subjective, influenced by conditions outside your control, and often challenged in court. How they...

Can You Be Arrested for a Gun in Your Car?

Posted on March 2, 2026

Yes, you can be arrested for having a gun in your car in Worcester if you do not have the proper Massachusetts license or if the firearm is stored or carried in a way that violates state law. Even licensed gun owners can face criminal charges if a firearm is accessible,...

Is Driving Without a License a Criminal Offense in Massachusetts?

Posted on February 16, 2026

Yes, driving without a valid license can be charged as a criminal offense in Massachusetts, depending on the reason you do not have a license and the circumstances of the stop. Some situations are treated as minor violations, while others carry criminal penalties that can affect your record, fines, and even...

Can You Be Charged for Drugs That Aren’t Yours?

Posted on February 9, 2026

Yes, you can be charged with drug possession even if the drugs do not belong to you. In Massachusetts, prosecutors may rely on a legal theory called constructive possession, which focuses on whether you knew about the drugs and had the ability to control them, not whether you owned them. These...

Do You Need a Lawyer for Your First Court Appearance?

Posted on February 2, 2026

You are not legally required to have a lawyer at your first court appearance in Massachusetts, but going without one can put you at a disadvantage. Decisions made at this stage can affect bail, release conditions, and how your case proceeds. A lawyer can advocate on your behalf and help prevent mistakes...

How to Fight a Speeding Ticket in Worcester

Posted on January 8, 2026

Getting a speeding ticket in Worcester can be frustrating and costly. But you don’t have to accept it without a fight. Massachusetts law gives drivers the right to contest traffic violations, and with the right approach, you may be able to reduce the fine, avoid points on your license, or even get...

What Happens After You’re Charged With a Crime in Massachusetts

Posted on January 5, 2026

The moment you're charged with a crime in Massachusetts, a clock starts running. You'll likely face arraignment within 24 hours if held in custody (sometimes sooner), and the decisions you make in those first days shape everything that follows. Massachusetts criminal procedure moves through distinct stages, from booking and bail determination to...

Defending Against False Charges in Worcester County

Posted on December 4, 2025

When You’re Accused of a Crime You Didn’t Commit Being falsely accused of a crime in Worcester County can upend your life in an instant. False charges can lead to arrest, public embarrassment, job loss, and emotional distress—even before a case reaches trial. Defending against these accusations...

Penalties for Carrying a Loaded Firearm Without a Permit in Worcester County

Posted on December 2, 2025

What Happens If You’re Caught with a Loaded Gun Without a Permit Carrying a loaded firearm without a valid license in Massachusetts is a serious weapons offense. Law enforcement in Worcester County treats these cases aggressively, and penalties can include mandatory jail time, steep fines, and a...

5 Defenses Against an OUI Charge

Posted on November 17, 2025

Facing an Operating Under the Influence (OUI) charge in Massachusetts can be overwhelming, especially for first-time offenders. The impact on your driving record, your job, and your personal life can be serious. But being charged is not the same as being convicted. There are legal defenses that could lead to reduced penalties...