If you are a college student aspiring to a meaningful, fulfilling career, a criminal conviction can be an impediment on the road to success. Whether it’s a misdemeanor or felony, prospective employers may be loathe to hire someone with a criminal record. Colleges and universities throughout western Massachusetts have become increasingly aggressive in enforcing violations of the laws (including relatively “minor” offenses such as minor transporting alcohol, underage drinking, disorderly conduct and shoplifting)) and it is critical to have competent, experienced representation at all stages of the proceedings. From offices in Northampton and Springfield, Attorney Astor has represented students for over 40+ years at schools including:

-University of Massachusetts
-Amherst College
-Western New England University
-Springfield College
-Westfield State University
-Hampshire College
-Smith College
-Mount Holyoke College
-American International College

An experienced criminal defense attorney, Attorney Astor is familiar with the judges, prosecutors and clerks throughout the courts of western Massachusetts, and strives – whenever possible – to resolve cases at an early stage in order to avoid the stigma and burden of a criminal conviction, by utilizing pre-trial diversion or alternative sentencing. If trial is necessary, Attorney Astor is an experienced, aggressive criminal lawyer, and has tried hundreds of cases, including cases involving Operating Under the Influence of Alcohol, Larceny, Assault and Battery, Leaving the Scene of an Accident, Malicious Destruction of Property, Possession of Drugs and Distribution of Drugs. He handles cases in all courts of western Massachusetts, including Eastern Hampshire District Court (Belchertown), Northampton District Court, Springfield District Court, Westfield District Court, Palmer District Court, Chicopee District Court and Holyoke District Court.

He offers free initial consultations by phone, and is readily available to return phone calls in urgent situations.