Bill > H1765

This bill establishes the Uniform Interstate Depositions and Discovery Act (UIDDA) in Massachusetts, creating a new legal framework for handling out-of-state subpoenas and discovery requests. The act provides a standardized process for lawyers and courts to issue and serve subpoenas from foreign jurisdictions, ensuring that legal proceedings can efficiently obtain evidence across state lines. Key provisions include defining terms like "foreign subpoena" and "foreign jurisdiction", outlining the procedures for requesting and issuing subpoenas, specifying how subpoenas can be served, and establishing protections for individuals who are served. The bill allows subpoenas from other jurisdictions to be domesticated in Massachusetts courts, with the requirement that they include specific information like contact details for counsel and be in compliance with state laws. The act also protects the rights of individuals by allowing them to file objections, assert legal privileges, and seek reimbursement for reasonable costs associated with responding to a subpoena. Additionally, the bill gives the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court the authority to create additional rules for implementing the act and ensures that if any part of the act is found invalid, the rest of the provisions will remain in effect.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1765