Arrested for Carrying a Dangerous Weapon in Stoughton?

Don’t Let One Mistake Define You.

If you or your child was arrested for carrying a dangerous weapon in Stoughton, you’re likely overwhelmed—and unsure what comes next. Maybe it was a pocketknife in a backpack. Maybe it was a tool in your car. Maybe it was a fight that escalated. No matter how it happened, you’re now facing a criminal charge with serious consequences.

At DeGiacomo & Mikhlin, P.C., we defend people in Stoughton District Court and throughout Norfolk County who have been charged with carrying a dangerous weapon. We’re here to walk you through the process, challenge the charges, and work to protect your future—whether you’re a student, a working professional, or a parent worried about your child’s record.

What Counts as a Dangerous Weapon in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts law (M.G.L. c. 269 § 10) prohibits carrying certain weapons in public without proper authorization. These include:

• Switchblades and automatic knives
• Double-edged blades
• Brass knuckles
• Clubs, blackjacks, and batons
• Stun guns (without a license)

But police and prosecutors in Stoughton can also charge you for any object they believe was intended to be used as a weapon, such as:

• Box cutters or utility knives
• Baseball bats kept in a car
• Tools like hammers or screwdrivers
• Heavy flashlights or blunt objects

The law focuses on intent and context, which means everyday items can become the basis for a criminal charge, especially if there’s an argument, a threat, or a school involved.

Common Scenarios in Stoughton

We see these cases most often after:

• School safety concerns involving backpacks or lockers
• Traffic stops where tools or knives are found in the car
• Disputes between neighbors or peers that result in police contact
• Domestic incidents or breakups where one party calls 911

In many cases, the person charged had no criminal history, no intent to hurt anyone, and was simply caught in the wrong place at the wrong time. That’s where we come in.

Penalties for Carrying a Dangerous Weapon in Massachusetts

Although this is a misdemeanor offense, the consequences are serious:

• Up to 2.5 years in jail
• Probation, with court-imposed conditions
• Fines, fees, and mandatory counseling
• A criminal record that can affect jobs, school, and housing

For young adults and first-time offenders in Stoughton, a conviction can be particularly damaging. We work hard to resolve these cases in ways that avoid jail—and keep your record clean whenever possible.

Our Defense Strategy in Stoughton District Court

We approach these cases with one goal: get you out of the criminal system with the best possible result.

That means we:

• Review the legality of the stop, search, or school investigation
• Challenge whether the object qualifies as a “dangerous weapon” under the law
• Present evidence that you had a lawful reason to carry the item
• Explore pretrial diversion, school discipline alternatives, or a dismissal for first-time charges

FAQs – Dangerous Weapon Charges in Stoughton

Can I be arrested for carrying a knife I use for work?
Yes—if it meets the legal definition of a dangerous weapon, or if police believe you were carrying it without lawful purpose. Even tools can lead to charges.

What if I never used or threatened anyone with it?
You don’t have to use the item. Possession alone is enough for a charge under Massachusetts law. That said, we can often use the lack of threat or violence to negotiate a better outcome.

Will this affect school or college applications?
Yes. A criminal record—even for a misdemeanor—can impact applications, financial aid, or school discipline. That’s why our goal is to resolve the case in a way that leaves your record clear.

Let’s Take Care of This—Before It Becomes Something Bigger

A dangerous weapon charge doesn’t have to ruin your future. Whether you made a mistake or were unfairly charged, we’ll help you find the best path forward—and fight to protect your name, your record, and your peace of mind.

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

We represent clients in Stoughton and throughout Norfolk and Plymouth Counties.