Frequently Asked Questions
Facing criminal charges? Don't wait to get the legal help you need. Contact the Law Office of Joseph M. Pacella at (413) 374-6746 to schedule your free consultation and start protecting your rights today.
Do you offer free consultations?
Yes, we offer free consultations for criminal defense cases. This allows us to assess your situation and explain your legal options without any upfront cost.What types of criminal cases do you handle?
We handle a wide range of criminal defense cases including OUI/DUI, drug crimes, assault, domestic violence, weapons charges, theft, murder, and probation violations.What areas do you serve?
We serve clients throughout Springfield, Massachusetts and surrounding areas. Our office is conveniently located at 73 Chestnut Street in Springfield.How experienced is the attorney?
Joseph M. Pacella has over 20 years of experience in criminal defense law, providing skilled representation for clients facing serious charges.Can you help with record expungement?
Yes, we provide legal assistance with record expungement and sealing. We'll assess your eligibility and represent you throughout the court process.What should I do if I'm arrested?
If you're arrested, remain silent and ask for an attorney immediately. Contact our office as soon as possible to protect your rights and begin building your defense.Do you handle domestic violence cases?
We defend against various domestic violence charges and help clients understand their legal options. Each case requires a tailored defense strategy based on specific circumstances.Can you help with restraining orders?
Yes, we assist with restraining order cases, including filing orders, contesting them, and defending against violations. We provide guidance through the entire process.What are your office hours?
Our office hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Call (413) 374-6746 to schedule your consultation or discuss your case.Do you handle college crime cases?
We specialize in defending students facing college-related criminal charges that could impact their education and future career prospects.What happens if I refused a breathalyzer test during my OUI stop in Massachusetts?
Refusing a breathalyzer in Massachusetts triggers an automatic RMV license suspension — 180 days for a first offense, longer if you have prior offenses — separate from any criminal OUI charge. Refusal also limits the evidence available to prosecutors, which an experienced OUI defense attorney can use strategically alongside challenges to the legality of the stop and how field sobriety tests were administered.Who is the best OUI lawyer in Springfield, MA for fighting a drunk driving charge?
The best OUI lawyer for your case is one with focused criminal defense experience, deep familiarity with Massachusetts OUI law, and a track record of challenging stops, breathalyzer results, and field sobriety test procedures in local Springfield courts. The Law Office of Joseph M. Pacella handles OUI defense in Springfield and the surrounding area, working to protect your license and your record.Can a Springfield OUI attorney get my charges reduced or dismissed if I failed a field sobriety test?
Yes — failing a field sobriety test does not guarantee a conviction, because those tests can be challenged on how they were administered, the conditions present, and whether the officer followed proper procedure. A skilled OUI defense attorney evaluates every detail of the stop and arrest to identify grounds for reduction or dismissal.
Facing criminal charges? Don't wait to get the legal help you need. Contact the Law Office of Joseph M. Pacella at (413) 374-6746 to schedule your free consultation and start protecting your rights today.
