Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Boston, MA (2026) — Reviewed and Ranked

If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges in Boston, selecting the right defense attorney is one of the most critical decisions you will ever make. The consequences of a conviction can be life-altering, affecting your freedom, reputation, and employment opportunities. Here are the top criminal defense attorneys in Boston, MA for 2026, selected based on Google ratings, years of trial experience, peer recognitions, and case dismissals.

Disclaimer: This list is compiled from publicly available information and does not constitute a legal recommendation. Always conduct your own due diligence before hiring an attorney.

Table of Contents

• How We Selected These Attorneys
• 1. Serpa Law Office
• 2. Law Offices of Stephen Neyman, P.C.
• 3. Law Office of Patrick J. Murphy
• 4. Brad Bailey Law
• 5. Dhar Law, LLP
• How to Choose a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Boston
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How We Selected These Attorneys

We evaluated Boston criminal defense attorneys based on the following key metrics: years of local trial experience in Massachusetts district and federal courts, Avvo ratings, Super Lawyers selections, peer-reviewed ethical standards, pre-trial dismissal track records, and consistency in client reviews. Special focus was given to attorneys who regularly handle complex OUI, drug offenses, white-collar crimes, and clerk-magistrate hearings.

This article is part of our ongoing Best Criminal Defense Attorneys series, providing transparent reviews of top-rated legal services across the country.

#1 — Serpa Law Office

Serpa Law Office, led by principal Joe Serpa, is a leading criminal defense practice in Boston. With 30 years of Massachusetts trial court experience, Joe Serpa has built a reputation for securing dismissals, clerk-magistrate hearing victories, and “not guilty” verdicts in complex cases. The firm handles OUI/DUI, domestic violence, drug offenses, sex crimes, and white-collar defense.

The firm is widely known for its hands-on approach, ensuring every client receives tailored representation directly from Joe Serpa rather than being passed to junior associates.

#2 — Law Offices of Stephen Neyman, P.C.

The Law Offices of Stephen Neyman, P.C. is a premier defense firm situated in downtown Boston. Stephen Neyman has defended clients against a wide array of state and federal charges for over three decades. The firm specializes in drug charges, OUI defense, assault crimes, white-collar crimes, and sex offenses.

The firm has maintained an exemplary reputation for helping clients avoid criminal records entirely by securing pre-trial dismissals during clerk-magistrate hearings, minimizing the long-term impact on their lives.

#3 — Law Office of Patrick J. Murphy

For more than 25 years, Patrick J. Murphy has defended individuals accused of misdemeanor and felony crimes in Boston. Located near TD Garden, his firm is highly regarded for its representation in OUI/DUI defense, drug conspiracies, domestic violence, assault, and weapons offenses in both state and federal courts.

Murphy is recognized for his thorough case analysis and strategic pre-trial motions that challenge police procedure and illegal searches, often leading to key evidence being suppressed.

#4 — Brad Bailey Law

Brad Bailey is one of the most visible and highly respected criminal defense trial lawyers in Massachusetts. A former state and federal prosecutor, Bailey uses his insider knowledge of government tactics to craft powerful defenses. He has represented defendants in high-profile homicide trials, federal RICO cases, and major fraud investigations.

With an AV Preeminent Rating and frequent appearances as a legal analyst on local media, Bailey is a trusted advocate for individuals facing serious government prosecutions.

#5 — Dhar Law, LLP

Dhar Law, LLP is a premier criminal defense firm based in Charlestown, serving Boston and the surrounding communities. Founder Vikas Dhar is recognized as one of Boston’s top legal minds, consistently selected to the Top 100 Super Lawyers and featured in Boston Magazine. The firm handles complex white-collar defense, conspiracy charges, and state-level felonies.

Due to the sensitive nature of criminal defense, particularly for corporate clients, the firm maintains strict confidentiality, which is reflected in their stellar peer reputation and professional standings.

How to Choose a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Boston

1. Prioritize Local Court Familiarity: Every district court in Massachusetts behaves differently. Choosing an attorney who regularly practices before the local judges and prosecutors in the court where your case is pending is a major advantage.

2. Ask About Clerk-Magistrate Hearings: In Massachusetts, many misdemeanor charges begin with a Clerk-Magistrate’s hearing rather than an arrest. An attorney who knows how to present a case at this stage can prevent a formal criminal complaint from ever being issued.

3. Former Prosecution Background: Attorneys who have worked as prosecutors understand how police build cases and know where search warrants and investigations typically fall short, allowing them to locate weaknesses in the state’s case faster.

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Also see our other guides: Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in New York City | Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Los Angeles