Nantucket Criminal Defense

Thomas Kokonowski brings over 30 years of criminal defense to his clients. As a former prosecutor with literally decades of criminal trials in Massachusetts he can give you the edge you need to experience your best outcome.

Where will your criminal case be handled?

Tom will work tirelessly to get your charges dropped. That is always the #1 goal for every case.  If the prosecution is not willing to drop the charges, the next goal will be to get your charges reduced to the minimum levels.  Either scenario above typically means you should face zero court time and more importantly hopefully also zero prison time.

In the rare circumstances your case needs to go to court just know I am considered one of the top criminal trial lawyers in all of Massachusetts.  On November 25, 2024 a 12 person jury famously found my client, Brian Camp, not guilty of manslaughter charges. That verdict also had marked my 8th criminal defense trial win in a row. That kind of record is pretty much unheard of in the world of criminal defense where the vast majority of criminal trials result in a conviction.  If you want to get on the winning side be sure to hire a defense lawyer with a winning record.

The Nantucket Superior Court handles serious criminal cases—primarily felonies—that have been indicted by a grand jury. It has original jurisdiction over all crimes, but typically processes major offenses, including murder, rape, drug trafficking, and other felonies that carry potential sentences in state prison.

Key details regarding the criminal cases handled include:

• Felony Jurisdiction: The court acts as the trial court for major crimes that generally exceed the jurisdiction of the District Court.
• Grand Jury Indictments: Almost all cases, particularly felonies, are brought to the Superior Court through a grand jury indictment process.
• Types of Crimes: Common cases include, but are not limited to, murder, rape, armed robbery, and drug trafficking.
• Sentencing: The court handles sentencing for guilty verdicts, often involving state correctional facilities.

The Cape and Islands District Attorney’s Office manages the prosecution of these cases in Nantucket.

Kokonowski Criminal Defense helps with all charges in Nantucket:

Whether you are facing a speeding ticket or any other type of misdemeanor my defense can help you get your best outcome.
Call today for a free consultation:  (508) 262-0063

Common criminal charges in Nantucket, MA:

Common charges largely reflect typical offenses found in Massachusetts coastal communities and seasonal tourist locations, with a high volume of property, driving, and behavioral infractions. In 2022, the most frequently reported crimes included theft (143 incidents), property destruction/vandalism (81 incidents), and assault (61 incidents).
Common criminal charge types in Nantucket include:

1. Motor Vehicle Offenses 
   • Operating Under the Influence (OUI/DUI): A very common charge in Massachusetts,
   • Operating Under the Influence (OUI/DUI): A very common charge in Massachusetts, particularly in tourist areas.
   • Negligent Operation of a Motor Vehicle: Reckless or dangerous driving.
   • Leaving the Scene of an Accident: Property damage or personal injury.
   • Operating After License Suspension/Revocation: Frequently charged alongside initial traffic stops.

2. Theft and Property Crimes
   • Larceny/Theft: Includes shoplifting, larceny from a building, and larceny by check.
   • Destruction/Damage/Vandalism of Property: A high-volume category in the area.
   • Breaking and Entering: Often in the night time with intent to commit a felony.
   • Receiving Stolen Property: Knowledge of possessed goods being stolen.

3. Violent Crimes and Behavioral Offenses

• • Assault and Battery (Simple): Often arises from bar fights or disturbances.
  • Domestic Violence/Assault and Battery: A major category of charges.
  • Disorderly Conduct & Disturbing the Peace: Common in public, high-density areas.
  • Threat to Commit a Crime/Criminal Harassment: Stalking or threats.
  • Resisting Arrest: Charges that may accompany other offenses.

4. Drug and Other Charges

• • Drug Possession and Distribution: Includes possession of Classes A, B, C, D, and E substances.
  • Violation of a Restraining Order (209A): Domestic-related protective orders.
  • Probation Violations: Violating the terms of a probation sentence.

These crimes often result in misdemeanor charges, which in Massachusetts can carry up to 2.5 years in a house of correction, or more serious felony charges.

Whether you have been charged with a misdemeanor or are facing major charges, defense attorney Tom Kokonowski can give you the winning edge.  Call today to arrange a free consultation:  (508) 262-0063