Lawyers e-Journal
Thursday, Nov. 1, 2012
MBA statement in response to the release of the special counsel’s report on OUI cases
The Massachusetts Bar Association has a long history of
advocating for and supporting an impartial justice system that
protects the rights of all involved.
"The special counsel's report to the Supreme Judicial Court
demonstrates that overall the Massachusetts courts are treating OUI
cases in line with that of other states. While drunk driving cases
are a serious matter, judges must remain independent and be
provided the freedom to decide individual cases based on the weight
of the evidence before them and the unique circumstances of each
particular case," said Thomas Hoopes, chair of the MBA's Committee
on Fair and Impartial Courts.
In regard to the high bench trial acquittal rates of certain
judges, the report correctly cautions against drawing any adverse
conclusions about those individual justices. Rather, as identified
by the report, evidentiary barriers and other systemic factors may
contribute to those elevated rates.
The MBA will closely examine the report's recommendations and
work with court and legislative leaders to ensure that the
independence of the judicial system is preserved.
For the full report and a statement
from the Supreme Judicial Court, click here.