Accused of Criminal Mischief in Rockingham County? Get Aggressive Legal Defense Today
If you’ve been charged with Criminal Mischief in Rockingham County, you need a legal team that understands the law, knows the courts, and is committed to defending your future. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we focus on defending individuals facing Theft and Property Crimes across Rockingham County, including criminal mischief.
Whether the accusation involves damaged property, vandalism, or other allegations under New Hampshire RSA 634:2, you deserve clear guidance and an effective legal strategy. Our team includes experienced, aggressive, and relentless trial lawyers and a former prosecutor who understands the system from both sides. We know how to challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and present strong defenses in court.
We serve clients in Brentwood, Candia, Derry, Hampton, Portsmouth, Salem, and throughout Rockingham County.
What is Criminal Mischief in New Hampshire?
Under RSA 634:2, Criminal Mischief occurs when a person purposely or recklessly damages the property of another, without any lawful justification. Common examples include:
- Breaking windows
- Damaging someone’s vehicle
- Graffiti or vandalism
- Tampering with someone’s utilities or systems
- Destroying shared property during a dispute
The severity of the charge depends on the value of the damage and whether the act was done purposely, recklessly, or negligently.
Penalties can include:
- Misdemeanor charges if the damage is under $1,500
- Class B felony if the damage exceeds $1,500 or interferes with public utilities
- Restitution, court fees, probation, and potential jail time
In some situations, you could also face related charges such as Receiving Stolen Property, especially if you’re found with damaged or altered goods.
Why Choose Our Rockingham County Criminal Defense Team?
We approach each case with a focus on strategy, preparation, and protecting your rights, not empty promises or exaggerated claims. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we:
- Review every detail of your case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s argument
- Leverage our experience in criminal defense and insight from former prosecutorial roles
- Help you understand the process and your options clearly, without legal jargon
- Negotiate effectively for reduced charges or alternative resolutions when possible
- Prepare for trial from day one, ensuring we’re ready if your case goes to court
When you’re facing criminal mischief charges, you’re not just dealing with potential fines or jail time—you’re also facing long-term consequences like a criminal record that could affect your employment, housing, and personal reputation.
Our goal is not just to resolve your case, but to protect your future.
Serving Rockingham County with Local Knowledge and Experience
Each courthouse in Rockingham County has its procedures and tendencies. Whether your case is being heard in Brentwood, Candia, Derry, Hampton, Portsmouth, and Salem, we bring local insight that can make a real difference.
We understand how judges, prosecutors, and court clerks in Rockingham operate. This gives us an edge when it comes to negotiating plea deals, arguing motions, or preparing you for what to expect.
Defending Criminal Mischief Charges: What We Look For
When building your defense, we look for:
- Intent and state of mind: Did you act recklessly, or was the damage accidental?
- Ownership and consent: Was the property truly someone else’s, or was it shared?
- Lack of evidence: Is there video footage? Eyewitnesses? Reliable documentation?
- Value of the property: Are the prosecution’s claims about the damage value realistic or inflated?
In some cases, we may argue that the alleged damage didn’t meet the legal definition required for a felony. In other words, we might challenge how the evidence was gathered or whether your constitutional rights were violated during arrest or questioning.
Facing Additional Charges?
It’s not uncommon for someone accused of Criminal Mischief to also face related charges, such as:
- Receiving Stolen Property (RSA 637:7)
- Trespassing (RSA 635:2)
- Theft or burglary
If you’re facing multiple accusations, it’s even more important to have a legal team that can build a comprehensive strategy. We coordinate your defense to protect you against overlapping consequences and ensure that nothing falls through the cracks.
What to Do if You’ve Been Charged
If you’ve been charged with a crime, the most important step is to avoid speaking to the police without legal representation. Anything you say can be used against you, so it’s crucial to protect your rights from the start. Take time to write down everything you remember about the incident while the details are still fresh—this information can be critical to your defense.
Then, contact a skilled Rockingham criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. The sooner we step in, the more options we have to shape the direction of your case. Even if the situation feels overwhelming or the evidence seems stacked against you, we often find opportunities to reduce the charges or negotiate more favorable outcomes.
Contact Us to Set Up a Strategy Session
We don’t offer generic consultations. When you contact us, we set up a strategy session focused on your specific situation, the evidence involved, and what steps you can take to protect your future.
You don’t have to face this alone. Our Rockingham County criminal defense attorneys are here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact us now to set up a strategy session and take the first step toward defending your rights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Criminal Mischief a felony in New Hampshire?
It can be. If the damage is over $1,500 or involves public utilities, it’s typically charged as a Class B felony. Smaller damages may lead to a misdemeanor charge.
Can I go to jail for Criminal Mischief?
Yes, depending on the severity of the damage and your prior criminal history. Penalties may include jail, fines, and restitution.
What should I do if I’m falsely accused of damaging property?
Don’t try to explain it to the police without a lawyer. Call a criminal defense attorney immediately to protect your rights and build your defense.
What’s the difference between Criminal Mischief and vandalism?
They are essentially the same under New Hampshire law. “Criminal Mischief” is the legal term used in RSA 634:2.
Can a Criminal Mischief charge be dropped?
Yes. Charges can be reduced or dismissed if there’s insufficient evidence, the damage is minor, or the case can be resolved through restitution or diversion programs.