Being Accused is Traumatic. We Understand.
We Get You Safely Through the Storm.
Defending good people who have a really bad day.
Ernest Stone has been defending people in Peabody District Court for
more than 30 years.
If you or someone you care about has been charged with a crime in Peabody or Lynnfield, Peabody District Court is where your case will be heard.
Clerk's Office Email: cmpeabodydc@jud.state.ma.us
Probation Department: (978) 532-3100
Hours: Monday – Friday,8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Public Wi-Fi available. Wheelchair
accessible. MassRelay: Dial 711.
Peabody District Court is accessible by MBTA Bus 435 and Bus 465.
The closest stop is Central Street.
Free parking is available on Railroad Avenue, near the courthouse.
Massachusetts has 62 district courts, each responsible for cases arising within its geographic area. Peabody District Court serves Peabody and Lynnfield.
District court handles arraignments, bail hearings, motions, and trials for misdemeanors and many felonies.
More serious felony matters are transferred to Essex County Superior Court in Salem.
Juvenile matters for Peabody and Lynnfield are heard at the Essex County Juvenile Court in Salem.
If you are coming to Peabody Court for the first time, here is exactly what to do when you arrive:
Right inside the door is security. Once through the metal detectors, you should find the Probation Department, which will be on your right when you get to the lobby area. It is across the lobby from the Clerk's Office.
Tell the person at the counter that you are there for an arraignment intake. They will ask for your contact information, date of birth, and residential and employment information. This is standard. The probation officer at the desk will tell you exactly where to go next.
After your intake, go upstairs to the second floor. At the top of the stairs is Courtroom 1, where the First Session is held. Go in, find a seat, and wait for your arraignment to be called. Sometimes in Peabody you might have to wait for a while until the courtroom is opened.
Arraignments typically begin at 9:00 - 9:30a.m. Sometimes you may have towait a bit longer as paperwork is prepared before your case is called. Your name will be called when it is your turn.
Do not discuss your case with anyone except your attorney.
Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately so your rights are protected from the start.
Do not talk to police without your lawyer present—you have the right to remain silent.
Preserve any evidence such as texts, emails, photos, or videos.
Write down everything you remember about what happened while it’s still fresh.
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"I knew the moment I spoke to Ernie on the phone he was the real deal... We won our case because of his perseverance and professionalism. He's just a really good person who's in your corner fighting for you."
- C.A
"Attorney Stone understands that every client or potential client that he comes across is going through one of the most difficult periods a person will encounter in life... and he makes it part of his job to make sure you feel supported, calm, and confident throughout the process."
- G.C
"Ernie Stone did such an amazing job in helping me out with my case... I truly felt so comfortable working with him... He went above and beyond, and I could not be more grateful... I would recommend Attorney Stone to anyone."
- M.K
Our Comprehensive Criminal Defense approach means we view you not as a legal problem, but as a whole individual living a unique and valued life. We focus on addressing the underlying issues that may have contributed to your legal situation—with the goal of helping you make lasting positive changes.
We have won acquittals or obtained reduced charges or sentences in many types of criminal cases, including:
Ernie was invaluable in realizing a successful outcome to my case. He made the whole process straightforward and relaxed and his advice and assistance was concise and reassuring. I would absolutely hire him again if needed as he worked diligently to ensure a positive conclusion. Highly recommended!
- N.H
Ernie is an incredible lawyer and a wonderful mentor. I would highly recommend him and trust his advice and expertise.
- J.C
An attorney and a team who really cares about their clients. He did his absolute best in the court room and I got my case dropped thanks to him. I recommend to anyone looking for the best lawyer in town! Positive Quality, Professionalism.
- J.B
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Immediate Response: Our phones are answered 24/7 by a real person. When you call, someone will actually answer.
Confidential Discussion: Everything you tell us is protected by attorney-client privilege, even before you formally hire us. You can speak freely about your situation.
No Pressure: A free consultation means exactly that—free, with no obligation. We’ll listen to your situation, answer your questions, and explain how we can help.
Clear Next Steps: If you decide to hire us, we’ll explain our fee structure clearly and work with you on payment arrangements that fit your situation.
Immediate Protection: Once you retain us, we begin working on your case immediately—preserving evidence, investigating facts, and protecting your rights.
Contact our team today for a free consultation. We are available 24/7.
