Case analysis from the trial floor.
Plain-English breakdowns of new Massachusetts decisions, courtroom strategy, and the day-to-day realities of defending people accused of crimes.
Recent decisions, plainly explained.
Appeals Court Vacates OUI Conviction After Jury Sees Prior Offense
In Commonwealth v. McCollum, the Appeals Court vacated an OUI conviction after jurors were inadvertently exposed to evidence the defendant was charged as a second offender — a strict no-fly zone in a bifurcated OUI trial.
Appeals Court Vacates Conviction Over Missing 'Bad Acts' Instruction
In Commonwealth v. Duarte, the Appeals Court vacated a conviction for indecent assault and battery because the trial judge failed to give a requested limiting instruction on bad acts evidence.
What Commonwealth v. Atweri Means for Your Rights During Traffic Stops
The Appeals Court reaffirmed broad police authority during traffic stops when officer safety is in play — upholding both the exit order and the limited vehicle search that produced a firearm and drugs.
Commonwealth v. Berry: Reciprocal Psychiatric Exams in Resentencing Cases
When a defendant seeks resentencing and relies on a psychological expert, can the Commonwealth compel its own psychiatric examination? The SJC's answer in Berry: yes — in limited circumstances.
What Happens After a Domestic Violence Arrest in Massachusetts
A domestic violence arrest moves fast. The next 24–72 hours can shape the entire case. Here is what typically happens, step by step, and how to protect yourself.
Massachusetts SJC Throws Out Drug and Firearm Convictions After Unlawful Exit Order
The SJC vacated drug and firearm convictions after holding that the police exit order was not justified — a powerful reminder that the suppression motion is often where these cases are won.
Massachusetts SJC Limits GPS Monitoring on Probation: Commonwealth v. Arnold
The SJC tightened the limits on imposing GPS monitoring as a condition of probation, holding that the state's interest must be balanced against the privacy intrusion the device imposes.
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