Boston Carrying a Dangerous Weapon Lawyer 

Charged with Carrying a Dangerous Weapon in Boston? You Need a Serious Defense.

In Boston, being caught with the wrong item in your pocket, bag, or car can quickly lead to criminal charges. Whether it’s a knife, a tool, or something the police claim “could be used as a weapon,” you can be arrested and charged under Massachusetts law—even if you never intended to hurt anyone.

At DeGiacomo & Mikhlin, P.C., we represent clients charged with carrying a dangerous weapon in Boston Municipal Court and other area courts. From traffic stops in Dorchester to searches at MBTA stations downtown, we know how these charges happen—and how to fight them.

What Is Considered a Dangerous Weapon in Massachusetts?

Under M.G.L. c. 269 § 10, it’s illegal to carry certain weapons outside your home or workplace. This includes:

• Switchblades and automatic knives
• Double-edged blades or stilettos
• Brass knuckles
• Batons, clubs, or blackjacks
• Stun guns (without proper licensing)

But here’s where Boston cases often get tricky: you can be charged for carrying everyday objects if police believe they were intended for use as weapons. That includes:

• Box cutters or utility knives
• Screwdrivers or heavy flashlights
• Metal tools or hardware
• Glass bottles or blunt objects

If you were stopped on the street, in your car, on the T, or at Logan Airport, you could face criminal charges just for having one of these items on you.

Boston-Specific Scenarios That Lead to Charges

We frequently defend clients who were charged after:

• T station or airport screenings
• Traffic stops in high-surveillance neighborhoods
• Fights or verbal disputes that escalated
• Routine pat-downs near schools, bars, or events

In Boston, law enforcement tends to take a more aggressive stance on weapons-related arrests—even when there’s no violence or threat involved. That’s why a strong legal response is critical from the start.

Penalties for Carrying a Dangerous Weapon in Boston

This charge is a misdemeanor, but don’t underestimate it:

• Up to 2.5 years in jail
• Probation, fines, and mandatory programs
• Loss of job opportunities and housing
• A criminal record that follows you long-term

If you’ve been charged in Suffolk County, your case may be eligible for a diversion program, CWOF, or outright dismissal—but only with proper representation and advocacy.

How We Defend These Charges in Boston

We focus on:

• Challenging the stop, search, or seizure
• Arguing that the item doesn’t meet the legal definition of a dangerous weapon
• Demonstrating that you had a lawful purpose for carrying it
• Negotiating for dismissal, reduced charges, or diversion, especially for first-time offenders

We’ve defended clients from all walks of life—college students, delivery drivers, construction workers, and professionals—charged after simple misunderstandings or overly aggressive enforcement.

FAQs – Dangerous Weapon Charges in Boston

Is it illegal to carry a knife in Boston?
It depends on the type of knife. Switchblades and double-edged blades are illegal. Other knives may be legal depending on the length and how they’re carried. But context matters—where you were and why you had it are key.

Do I need to have used the weapon to be charged?
No. Just possessing a prohibited item in a public place is enough for the police to charge you under the law.

Can I avoid a criminal record if this is my first offense?
Yes—many first-time defendants are eligible for pretrial diversion, a continuance without a finding (CWOF), or a full dismissal. We can guide you to the best outcome based on your record and the facts.

Charged in Boston? Don’t Wait to Build Your Defense.

If you’ve been arrested in Boston for carrying a dangerous weapon, it’s time to act. With the right defense, it’s often possible to avoid jail, keep your record clean, and move forward with your life.

Call DeGiacomo & Mikhlin, P.C. today for a free consultation Or fill out our contact form and we’ll get in touch quickly

We know Boston. We know the courts. And we’re ready to fight for you.

Also serving Cambridge, Somerville, Dorchester, Roxbury, Brighton, and the entire Greater Boston area.