Bill > H1876

This bill updates the compensation rates for bar advocates (lawyers appointed to represent low-income clients) in Massachusetts across different types of legal cases. Specifically, the bill establishes new hourly rates: $150 per hour for homicide cases, $105 per hour for superior court non-homicide cases (including sexually dangerous person cases), $73 per hour for district court and children in need of services cases, $90 per hour for children and family law and care and protection cases, and $90 per hour for sex offender registry and mental health cases. The bill mandates that these rates be reviewed periodically through public hearings, with notice given to bar associations and other interested groups, and requires that these reviews occur at least once every three years. The new compensation rates will take effect on July 1, 2025, and are subject to appropriate funding. This legislation aims to ensure fair compensation for lawyers providing essential legal representation to indigent clients across various legal domains.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1876