Clerk-Magistrate’s Hearings

A Trial-Ready Criminal Defense Attorney in Quincy Standing Up for You

Also known as a “show cause” hearing, a clerk-magistrate’s hearing is the beginning of many criminal cases in Massachusetts. It occurs when an individual or law enforcement officer submits an application requesting the court to issue a criminal complaint, rather than simply arresting an individual accused of a crime. Since this stage of the process happens before a court issues a criminal complaint, it gives you the chance to stop the issuance of the complaint, thereby preventing criminal charges from being filed against you.

It is of the utmost importance to take these hearings seriously because if you do not fight the issuance of the complaint, charges may be filed and you may be convicted. Even if you are not convicted, the charge itself will appear on your permanent record and potentially harm your future. At Flanagan & Associates, our criminal defense lawyer in Quincy regularly represents individuals at clerk-magistrate’s hearings. We will provide you with the strong representation you need and deserve.

Call Flanagan & Associates today at (781) 808-3346 or contact us online to learn more about how our firm can help you with your clerk-magistrate’s hearing. We serve clients throughout Quincy, Weymouth, Hingham, Plymouth, Brockton, and the surrounding areas.

How Can We Help You?

At the clerk-magistrate’s hearing, you need to help convincing the judge that there is insufficient evidence against you for a criminal complaint to be issued. Having a knowledgeable attorney as your advocate can help you clearly present your side of the story without incriminating yourself.

Anything you say at the hearing can be used against you, which is why Flanagan & Associates works hard to protect your rights. Backed by more than 15 years of legal experience, our Quincy criminal defense lawyer can protect your rights and fight for your best interests.

In your specific case, our legal team may assist you by doing any of the following:

• Use our extensive experience and legal understanding to help you make well-informed decisions about your future
• Attempt to contact your accuser in order to achieve a more favorable resolution or to better understand the complaint
• Prepare and thoroughly investigate your case before your appearance at the clerk-magistrate’s hearing
• Arrange witness testimony that could help support your case

Call us today at (781) 808-3346 and schedule a free consultation at our firm.