Shedd Dennis

Dennis Shedd, an attorney practicing from 114 Waltham St, Lexington, MA 02421, USA, is a highly specialized legal professional operating within the "Lawyers Near Me" platform category. He offers his services primarily in the niche and critical area of criminal appeals and post-conviction defense. Clients can reach his office by phone at (781) 274-7709 or via mobile at +1 781-274-7709, ensuring direct access for those seeking his unique expertise.

The defining feature of Dennis Shedd's practice is his exclusive focus on challenging criminal convictions and sentences after a trial or guilty plea. Since 2000, he has dedicated his practice solely to criminal appeals and other post-conviction matters. This high degree of specialization allows him to develop deep expertise and a nuanced understanding of the complex procedural and substantive issues involved in overturning or modifying criminal judgments. His services are crucial for individuals who believe they have been wrongfully convicted or unfairly sentenced, providing a vital avenue for justice post-trial.

The specific services offered by Dennis Shedd encompass a range of post-conviction legal actions. These include appeals of convictions, where he challenges the legal errors or constitutional violations that may have occurred during the trial process. He also handles motions to withdraw guilty pleas, which are essential for clients who believe their plea was not made knowingly, voluntarily, or intelligently, or was a result of ineffective assistance of counsel. Furthermore, Mr. Shedd files motions for new trials, seeking to present new evidence or argue that the original trial was fundamentally flawed. He assists with motions to correct sentences, addressing instances where a sentence may be illegal or improperly imposed. Finally, he represents clients in habeas corpus petitions, which are fundamental legal challenges to the legality of a person's detention, often asserting constitutional rights violations.

A key aspect of Dennis Shedd's approach to post-conviction criminal defense is his commitment to thorough preparation. His process involves a careful review of the entire trial record, which is often voluminous and complex. He also undertakes a complete investigation of any leads that might have been overlooked during the initial trial or that have become available only after the conviction. This meticulous investigative work is crucial for uncovering new evidence or identifying errors that could form the basis of an appeal or post-conviction motion. Following this, he meticulously determines the strongest issues to raise, conducts detailed research to support those issues, and provides persuasive written and oral advocacy. This comprehensive and diligent methodology is essential for effective representation in such challenging legal terrains.

Dennis Shedd's professional background is distinctive and contributes significantly to his unique legal profile. He began his professional career as an electrical engineer with Bell Laboratories, where he even earned three patents. This background suggests a mind that is analytical, detail-oriented, and skilled in complex problem-solving—qualities that are highly advantageous in legal work, especially in intricate appeals. His transition to law was inspired by a civil liberties class, indicating a deep-seated commitment to justice and individual rights. After graduating from New York University School of Law in 1989, he joined a leading criminal defense and civil rights law firm in Boston before starting his own practice. Notably, he also served as a Peace Corps volunteer in Papua New Guinea, further illustrating a breadth of experience and a commitment to serving others. His long-standing practice, coupled with his pre-legal career, provides a unique perspective and a robust skill set for his specialized field.

Mr. Shedd's experience spans a wide variety of charges, from misdemeanors to first-degree murder cases, demonstrating his capability to handle the full spectrum of criminal severity in post-conviction matters. He has also served as a mentor for other attorneys embarking on post-conviction work, which speaks to his recognized expertise and leadership in this niche area of law. His bar admissions in Massachusetts (1989), New Mexico (1995), the U.S. District Court of Massachusetts (1989), the U.S. First Circuit Court of Appeals (1989), and the U.S. Supreme Court (2007) highlight his extensive reach and ability to practice in various federal and state courts, which is often necessary for appellate and post-conviction cases.

The firm's stated feature of maintaining a "small case load" is a significant promotional point. This strategy is designed to ensure that he has ample time to provide "every client's case the full attention it deserves." In the high-stakes world of criminal appeals, where liberty and future are on the line, this commitment to individualized attention and thoroughness is highly desirable for clients. It suggests a practice that prioritizes quality over quantity, directly benefiting the client through dedicated resources and focused legal effort.

While specific details about the physical environment of Dennis Shedd's office at 114 Waltham St, Suite 14, Lexington, MA 02421 are not extensively detailed, the address in a professional building suggests an environment conducive to serious legal work. A suite number implies a private office space designed for confidential client consultations and the extensive document review inherent in appellate work. The location in Lexington, a suburb of Boston, provides accessibility for clients from various parts of Massachusetts while maintaining a community-focused presence. The office environment would likely be organized to support the meticulous legal processes Mr. Shedd undertakes, providing a professional and focused atmosphere for clients discussing sensitive post-conviction matters.

For promotional information, Dennis Shedd's website, as indicated by search results, explicitly outlines his specialization in criminal appeals and post-conviction defense. It details the types of cases he handles, his biography, and a list of "successes," which would serve as direct testimonials of his capabilities and past achievements in challenging convictions. This list of successes, mentioning specific cases and outcomes, is a powerful form of promotion, demonstrating concrete results and highlighting his effectiveness in various post-conviction scenarios. The contact information, phone numbers (781) 274-7709 and +1 781-274-7709, along with an email option, provides clear avenues for potential clients to reach out. The emphasis on his small caseload as a benefit also acts as a strong promotional message, reassuring clients that their case will receive dedicated attention. His extensive experience and specialized focus are implicitly promoted as key advantages for anyone needing assistance with criminal appeals.

In conclusion, Dennis Shedd offers highly specialized and deeply experienced legal services in criminal appeals and post-conviction defense from his office in Lexington, MA. Operating within the "Lawyers Near Me" category, he stands out for his exclusive focus on this complex area of law, his meticulous approach to case preparation, and his commitment to providing individualized attention to each client. His unique background as an engineer, coupled with decades of legal practice, provides a distinct advantage in dissecting complex legal issues and pursuing justice for individuals challenging their convictions. His clear promotional messaging, centered on expertise and dedicated client service, makes him a valuable resource for anyone in Massachusetts seeking effective post-conviction legal representation.