In an important decision delivered today, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court reminded trial judges that the purpose of bail is not to detain criminal defendants pending trial.  The name of the case is Brangan v. Commonwealth.  (more…)

In an interesting decision released last week, the United States Supreme Court ruled that a criminal defendant who wins on appeal is entitled to a refund of the court costs paid in conjunction with the conviction.  The name of the case is Nelson v. Colorado.  (more…)

The Massachusetts Appeals Court today affirmed the principle that an attorney who was a witness to an alleged crime ordinarily cannot then represent the defendant in court.  The name of the case is Commonwealth v. Delnegro. (more…)

The Massachusetts Appeals Court today affirmed three corruption convictions against former Lawrence Mayor William Lantigua's chief of staff.  The name of the case is Commonwealth v. Degnan.  (more…)

The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court today reversed the disorderly conduct conviction of a man who was involuntarily transported to the psychiatric wing of a hospital before scuffling with security officers.  The name of the case is Commonwealth v. Accime.  (more…)