Criminal Justice (Victims' Rights)

This bill expands rights for crime victims in Massachusetts, specifically affecting victims of violent crimes like homicide and sexual assault. It adds grandparents and individuals in marital-like relationships to the definition of family members entitled to services. Key provisions include requiring courts to delay sentencing if victims aren't present (allowing them to be notified), guaranteeing victims the right to submit written impact statements at sentencing, and mandating notification about probation violations and sex offender registry processes. It also creates a commission to evaluate victim notification systems related to bail. The bill ensures limited English proficient victims receive free language assistance and clarifies definitions for "vital documents" and "limited English proficient."

HD 1234 creates a new program within the Massachusetts Attorney General's office to provide financial compensation and transitional social services (such as physical, emotional, and social support) to individuals wrongfully convicted of felonies who were exonerated. To qualify, a person must have served at least one year in prison for a felony conviction later overturned via a governor's pardon for innocence or a court-ordered reversal of the conviction, and must be indigent. The bill establishes a division to process claims, requiring applicants to submit sworn innocence statements, court documents, and proof of incarceration; if documents are sufficient, compensation is paid immediately, or a hearing is held within 60 days if additional information is needed. The division must also report annually to the legislature and governor on claims processed and payments made.