Felony Sexual Assault Case Dismissed in Lawrence District Court

Highlights

Charge: Indecent Assault and Battery on Person 14 or Over, Assault with a Dangerous Weapon (knife)

Court: Lawrence District Court

Client: Male client in his early 40s

Result: All charges dismissed

Case Summary

In 2025, a client in his early 40s was charged in Lawrence District Court with sexual assault and violent felonies, including Indecent Assault and Battery and Assault with a Dangerous Weapon.

The allegations arose after an individual reported that, while walking in the woods, he was approached by the Client. The Client was alleged to have touched the man’s genitals and then brandished a knife at him when confronted. The Commonwealth pursued charges against the client after that report.

After being retained, Attorney Meredith Underwood was aware of the serious immigration and deportation consequences that would result in even an admission on this case. She strategically hunted down third party witnesses who indicated they did not see any violence between the two men in the woods that day. She asked her private investigator to speak to the witnesses and write affidavits as to their statements, which she provided to the prosecution. Meredith presented mitigating information about the Client so the prosecutors could see who he was outside the police report and allegations. The Client strongly maintained his innocence throughout the pendency of the case and Meredith relayed that to the prosecutors. Based on her representations and the information provided to the prosecutor, Meredith was able to negotiate a short pretrial probation with community service on both felony charges. This ultimately resulted in a delayed dismissal of the case with no admissions or convictions on the charges.

Why This Result Matters

Sexual assault charges in Massachusetts can carry severe penalties, including jail sentences, felony convictions, mandatory sex offender registration, and long-term consequences for employment and future opportunities. This Client also had immigration consequences to consider which require extreme care. The complete dismissal of all charges allowed the client to avoid a criminal convictions, sex offender registration, and deportation.

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