Criminal Justice (Victims' Rights)

This bill creates the "Massachusetts Survivors Act," allowing adults and children charged with crimes who are survivors of abuse, sexual assault, or human trafficking to seek relief in their criminal cases. Defendants can file a motion at any time after being charged, requesting pretrial diversion (suspended proceedings), reduced sentences, or postconviction relief, supported by evidence like court records, medical documentation, or expert testimony. The court must issue written findings on eligibility and sentence, and the Attorney General must annually report on all motions filed, granted, and demographic details. The law ensures no prior legal finding of abuse is required and protects defendants' constitutional rights during the process.

By Representative Jones of North Reading, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 1789) of Bradley H. Jones, Jr., and others for legislation to authorize the Division of Victim Compensation and Assistance to monitor profits from criminal activities of incarcerated persons. The Judiciary.

By Representative Donato of Medford, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 1672) of Paul J. Donato relative to communication between local law enforcement and crime victims. The Judiciary.

By Representative Holmes of Boston, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 1758) of Russell E. Holmes relative to compensation for erroneous felony convictions. The Judiciary.

By Representative Decker of Cambridge, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 1654) of Marjorie C. Decker relative to the rights of victims of certain crimes. The Judiciary.

By Representatives Roy of Franklin and Worrell of Boston, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 1965) of Jeffrey N. Roy, Christopher J. Worrell and Sean Reid relative to compensation for victims of wrongful conviction. The Judiciary.