What Is a No Trespass Order in Massachusetts?

A no trespass order is a written notice that tells someone they’re no longer allowed on a particular piece of private property. In Massachusetts, these are most commonly issued by businesses, landlords, or homeowners—and they don’t require a court order to be valid.

Police often serve these notices, but they’re not criminal charges themselves. That said, if you ignore the order and return to the property, you can be charged with trespassing under G.L. c. 266, § 120. The penalties include a fine or even jail time, especially if it’s part of a larger dispute.

No trespass orders are frequently used in shoplifting or disturbance cases. I’ve seen clients issued one after being accused of minor conduct in a store or an apartment complex. Even if no charges are filed at the time, the order stays in place—and violating it later can lead to a court date.

It’s important to take these notices seriously. If you’ve been given one and you think it was unfair—or if you're now facing charges for allegedly violating it—I can help you understand your options and defend your case.

Can the Police Search Your Car Without a Warrant in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, police don’t always need a warrant to search your car. But that doesn’t mean they can search it for no reason.

Warrantless car searches are allowed under several exceptions:
- If the officer has probable cause to believe there’s evidence of a crime
- If you give consent
- If the item is in plain view
- If the car is being towed or impounded

The most common justification is probable cause—like if the officer smells marijuana, sees a weapon, or gets conflicting statements. But officers sometimes stretch the truth or claim consent when none was given.

If your rights were violated during a search, I can file a motion to suppress the evidence. I’ve won cases where drugs, weapons, or other items were thrown out because the search was illegal.

You don’t have to let police search your car—and saying “no” doesn’t mean you’re guilty. If your car was searched and charges followed, let’s talk.

What Is the Difference Between Sealing and Expunging a Record in Massachusetts?

If you have a criminal record in Massachusetts, you may have heard about sealing or expungement. They sound similar—but they’re not the same.

Sealing means your record still exists, but it’s hidden from most employers, landlords, and the general public. Law enforcement and certain government agencies can still access it. Sealing is available in more cases and is often quicker to obtain.

Expungement means the record is completely erased—as if it never happened. But it’s only available in limited circumstances, like identity theft, clerical errors, or certain juvenile cases.

Both options require a petition, and some cases may involve a court hearing. I help clients evaluate which path is available and makes the most sense based on their record, goals, and eligibility.

If your past is holding you back, there may be a legal way to move on from it. I can help you figure it out.

Can You Travel While on Probation in Massachusetts?

Whether you can travel while on probation in Massachusetts depends on the terms of your probation—and how far you’re going.

Most probation conditions require you to stay in Massachusetts unless you get permission. Even travel to nearby states like New Hampshire or Rhode Island could be a violation if your probation officer or the court didn’t approve it.

In some cases, especially with unsupervised probation or minor charges, judges may allow travel without prior approval. But if your case involves conditions like GPS monitoring, substance testing, or mandatory check-ins, travel is usually off-limits without a signed court order.

Violating travel restrictions—even unintentionally—can lead to a surrender hearing and possible jail time. I’ve had clients flagged just for flying out of state for a funeral or driving over the border without thinking.

If you’re planning a trip and you’re on probation, talk to a lawyer first. I’ve helped clients get court-approved travel—even for international trips—and avoid unnecessary violations.

What Happens If You Violate Probation in Massachusetts?

If you're on probation in Massachusetts and accused of violating the terms, the court can hit you with serious consequences—fast.

Probation violations can be for new arrests, failing drug tests, missing appointments, or even technical issues like moving without permission. Once a violation is alleged, the court will usually schedule a surrender hearing. At that hearing, the probation officer presents the violation, and you have the right to challenge it.

You’re not entitled to a jury at a violation hearing, and the standard of proof is lower than at trial. That means it’s easier for the court to find a violation—even if the original charge is still pending or gets dismissed later.

If the judge finds you in violation, they can:
- Add new conditions
- Extend your probation
- Sentence you to jail or prison

I regularly represent clients in probation violation hearings. The best outcomes happen when you act fast, explain your side clearly, and have a plan to fix the issue. In many cases, I’ve been able to resolve the violation without jail and keep clients on track.