Criminal Defense

South Shore, Massachusetts, Criminal Defense Lawyer

It is important to remember that being charged with a criminal offense doesn't make you a criminal. At the Law Office of Kenneth D. van Colen, in Fall River, Massachusetts, I am a great believer that you are innocent unless the state or municipal government proves otherwise, beyond reasonable doubt.

Free initial consultation.

I accept Visa and MasterCard

I will meet at a time and location that is most convenient for you

Whether you have been charged with OWI or a serious violent felony, I urge you to consider the importance of hiring a defense attorney with valuable trial skills. As a former Assistant District Attorney, I was in court hundreds of times, where I learned that a defense attorney has the best chance of getting a favorable outcome when experience, education, knowledge, and vigorous representation are evident. Strong litigation skills can be a very effective negotiating tool for a defense attorney. I use all of my experience to fight to have your charges dropped and to keep you out of jail.

I handle all Massachusetts misdemeanor and felony charges such as:

• OUI, drunk driving charges
• Domestic violence
• Assault, homicide
• Theft, burglary, robbery
• Drug charges
• Sex crimes, solicitation, prostitution
• Fraud, identity theft, check forgery

Dual Diagnosis: Mental health and Substance Abuse Issues

Many violent charges are intertwined with either mental health or substance abuse issues. If that is the case, a relatively straightforward criminal defense case can become much more complicated. If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges and either of these issues is involved in the case it is wise to secure counsel with experience handling the specific difficulties that these kinds of cases present. Attorney Kenneth D. van Colen is experienced and proficient in dealing with the difficulties of criminal charges when mental health and/ or substance abuse issues are present.

Learn more about your rights at my Criminal Defense FAQ Page

After you have been charged, or think you may be charged with a misdemeanor or felony, it is important to start your defense right away. Who you hire to defend you may become the most important decision of your life. Contact my office for a free consultation.

 

Kenneth D. van colen, esq.

Background

Upon graduating with honors from Suffolk University Law School, in Boston, Massachusetts, I landed a position as the Assistant District Attorney for Bristol County. As an assistant D.A., I handled a wide variety of criminal cases, and I learned how the system works from State’s point of view. I gained invaluable courtroom experience, and I built mutually respectful relationships with my fellow colleagues - lawyers and judges alike.

Moreover, I came to understand how and why cases are dismissed or, in the alternative, why they proceed to trial. There can be no doubt that this knowledge has made me better a defense attorney.

Firm History and Philosophy

After five years as a D.A., I decided to open my own practice so that I could better serve my clients. Since 1997, I have proudly offered high quality legal advice and representation to the residents of Fall River, Massachusetts, including the metropolitan areas of New Bedford, Taunton, Attleboro, and Plymouth.

As your family law, criminal defense, or personal injury attorney, I will take very seriously the fact that you are likely facing legal difficulties that could have an enormous impact on the rest of your life. Likewise, I will take the time necessary to ensure that your problems are solved to the fullest extent that the law allows.

My promise to you includes:

• Aggressively representing you and your interests.
• Giving you the attention and the time you need to speak with me.
• Educating you on the law and how it applies to your case.
• Promptly communicating with you on all aspects of your case

It is my hope that when you come to me for advice or representation in the areas of criminal, family, or personal injury law, you will leave feeling reassured, educated and in control.

Areas of Practice: 

Adoption

Child Support

Contracts

Criminal Law

Custody & Visitation

Divorce

DUI/DWI

Family Law

Motor Vehicle Accidents -- Plaintiff

Personal Injury -- Plaintiff

Traffic Violations

Bar Admissions:

Massachusetts,1992

U.S. District Court District of Massachusetts, 1993

Education:

Suffolk University Law School, Boston, Massachusetts
J.D.
Honors: Cum Laude

Southeastern Massachusetts University (U-Mass Dartmouth), Dartmouth, Massachusetts
B.S.
Honors: Cum Laude 
Major:  Computer Science

Classes/Seminars Taught:

Instructor, Newbury College, 1994 - Present

Faculty Assistant, Prosecutors Program, National College of District Attorneys, Houston, TX, 1997

Professional Associations and Memberships:

Bristol County Bar Association, 1997 - Present

Member

Bristol County Bar Advocates, 2002 - Present

Member, Board of Directors

Bristol County Bar Advocates, 2005

Vice President

Bristol County Bar Advocates, 2005 - Present

President

Fall River Bar Association, 1997 - Present

Member

Past Employment Positions:

Bristol County D.A. Office, Assistant District Attorney, 1992 - 1997

Law Office of Kenneth S. Mello, Associate, 1997 - 1998

General Dynamics/Electric Boat Division, Member, Legal Department, 1991