Bill > H2158

This bill, concerning confidentiality and complaints against judges, proposes to amend Chapter 211C of the General Laws by adding a new section that generally makes commission proceedings open to the public, but with specific exceptions related to judicial confidentiality. Importantly, a judge cannot waive their right to confidentiality, and any complaint filed against a judge must be made public within 72 hours of its filing. The judge or the commission can then issue statements to clarify the investigation's status, explain the disciplinary process, emphasize the judge's right to a fair hearing, or confirm the judge's denial of allegations. If an inquiry starts due to public attention or a public record and is later dismissed for insufficient cause, this determination and the reasons for it will be made public by the commission. Furthermore, proceedings can remain open to the public even after a finding of sufficient cause, provided the judge, the commission, and the complainant all agree. Finally, if any government entity or agency seeks information about a judge in connection with their selection or appointment, the commission will divulge that information as outlined in this chapter.