Bill > H1848

This bill amends Section 87 of Chapter 276 of the Massachusetts General Laws to expand judicial discretion in probation decisions by providing judges with a comprehensive list of factors they may consider when determining whether to place a defendant on probation. The 15 specific factors judges can now evaluate include the defendant's personal characteristics such as age, education, and employment status; military service history and record; medical and psychological condition; criminal history (including the nature and age of past convictions); current criminal circumstances; victim-related considerations; and the availability of family and community support systems. By explicitly outlining these considerations, the bill aims to encourage a more holistic and individualized approach to probation decisions, allowing judges to take into account a wide range of personal, professional, and contextual elements that might influence a defendant's potential for rehabilitation and successful community reintegration.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1848