Charged with Malicious Destruction of Property in Hingham? 

Let’s Keep This Off Your Record. 

If you’ve been charged with malicious destruction of property in Hingham, chances are it’s your first time dealing with the criminal system—and it feels overwhelming. Maybe a disagreement got out of hand. Maybe something broke during a heated moment. Maybe your child or teen is being charged for something they didn’t even realize was serious.

At DeGiacomo & Mikhlin, P.C., we regularly represent people in Hingham District Court and surrounding South Shore towns who are facing this exact situation. Whether the incident involved a neighbor, a friend, or a school-related issue, our goal is to help you resolve the charge without jail, without a conviction, and without lasting damage to your record.

What Counts as Malicious Destruction of Property in Massachusetts?

Under M.G.L. c. 266 § 127, malicious destruction of property is defined as:

• Intentionally and maliciously
• Damaging, destroying, or defacing
• Another person’s property—whether it’s a car, a house, a phone, or something else

In Hingham, we commonly see this charge arise from:

• Teenagers breaking or tagging property
• Heated disputes between neighbors or family members
• Damage to vehicles in parking lots or driveways
• Accidental damage that police assume was intentional
• Vandalism complaints from schools, condos, or local businesses

Even if no one was hurt and the damage was minor, a criminal charge can lead to long-term consequences if not handled properly.

Penalties for Malicious Destruction of Property in Hingham

The penalties depend on the value of the damage:

Damage of $1,200 or more:

• Felony charge
• Up to 2.5 years in jail
• Fines of up to $3,000 or 3x the damage amount
• Restitution to the property owner

Damage under $1,200:

• Misdemeanor
• Still up to 2.5 years in jail
• Fines of up to $1,500 or 3x the damage
• Probation, stay-away orders, or conditions like community service

In many South Shore cases, first-time offenders may be eligible for pretrial diversion, dismissal agreements, or CWOFs (continuance without a finding)—but only if you have a lawyer advocating for that outcome.

How We Defend These Cases in Hingham District Court

We work quickly to identify opportunities to resolve the case without trial, jail, or a permanent record. Our strategies may include:

• Arguing the damage was accidental, not malicious
• Providing evidence of shared ownership or a misunderstanding
• Challenging the value of the property to reduce a felony to a misdemeanor
• Negotiating a restitution deal in exchange for a dismissal
• Working with court probation officers to secure pretrial diversion for young adults

We’ve helped students, parents, contractors, and professionals navigate Hingham District Court—and we can do the same for you.

FAQs – Malicious Destruction of Property in Hingham

What if the damage wasn’t intentional?
Intent is everything. If we can show it was an accident or done recklessly—not maliciously—the charge may not hold. We can often use this to push for dismissal or diversion.

Will I have a permanent record?
Not necessarily. With a CWOF, diversion, or dismissal, you may be able to avoid a conviction entirely and seal your record later.

What if my child was charged?
Juvenile and young adult defendants are often eligible for pretrial programs and alternatives to conviction. We’ll work to keep the impact on their future as minimal as possible.

Let’s Handle This Quietly, Quickly, and Effectively

If you or someone you love has been charged with property destruction in Hingham, don’t wait. Early legal action can mean the difference between a mistake you move past—and one that follows you for years.

Call DeGiacomo & Mikhlin, P.C. today for a free, confidential consultation Or fill out our contact form and we’ll respond promptly

We’ll handle the case with discretion and fight for the best possible outcome.

Also serving Hanover, Hull, Norwell, Rockland, Scituate, and communities across Plymouth County.