About Law Office of David J. Dennis — General Practice Fall River Massachusetts

The Law Office of David J. Dennis and Associates is a general practice Fall River firm handling criminal, family, estate, and divorce matters across Bristol County and the SouthCoast region. The firm files cases at the Bristol County Superior Court at 186 South Main Street and the Fall River District Court for smaller civil and criminal matters. The practice serves Fall River, Massachusetts as well as nearby Somerset, Swansea, and Westport.

Bristol County’s economy and demographics generate a steady stream of mixed legal needs — criminal defense alongside divorce, or estate work paired with property disputes. The firm focuses on accessible counsel and clear billing, since most clients arrive worried about both the legal outcome and the cost. The practice’s familiarity with Fall River’s bench and prosecutors helps move cases through the docket without the procedural delays that frustrate out-of-area attorneys.

What Clients Say

Reviewers describe the firm as experienced and direct, with realistic guidance about likely outcomes from the first meeting. Clients appreciate that fee structures are explained upfront and that the practice does not pad bills with unnecessary work. Several reviews highlight the firm’s responsiveness during stressful early stages of criminal or family matters when most defendants and spouses feel unsure of their next move.

General Practice Fall River — Practice Areas & Services

• Criminal Defense — OUI, drug, and assault cases in Fall River District Court and Bristol County Superior Court.
• Family Law and Divorce — Divorce, custody, child support, and modifications in the Bristol County Probate and Family Court.
• Estate Planning and Probate — Wills, trusts, and probate administration under M.G.L. Chapter 190B.
• Civil Litigation — Contract claims, landlord-tenant, and small civil disputes.
• Real Estate Matters — Title issues and residential closings across the SouthCoast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are family and divorce cases heard for Fall River residents?

The Bristol County Probate and Family Court has a Fall River session at 441 N. Main Street that handles divorce, custody, and child support. Larger civil and felony criminal cases go to Bristol County Superior Court at 186 South Main Street. Smaller matters are heard at the Fall River District Court.

How long does an uncontested divorce take in Bristol County?

Massachusetts requires a 120-day waiting period after a 1A (no-fault) divorce hearing before the judgment becomes final. Uncontested cases at the Fall River session typically finalize in five to seven months total. Contested matters involving custody can extend to a year or longer depending on the court’s calendar.

What is the OUI process in Massachusetts?

A first-offense OUI carries up to 30 months in the house of correction, fines from $500 to $5,000, and a one-year license loss. Most first offenders qualify for the 24D disposition, which substitutes a probationary alcohol-education program for jail time. Fall River District Court handles arraignments and most plea hearings.