Criminal Law Series: An Introduction to the District Court

When:  Oct 13, 2022 from 01:00 PM to 04:00 PM (ET)

Virtual series explores what every Massachusetts criminal lawyer needs to know

Join the Massachusetts Bar Association’s Criminal Justice Section for a virtual program series on the ever-changing area of criminal law in Massachusetts District Court. The series will offer an opportunity for practitioners on both sides of the aisle to learn important lessons from judges, probation officers, defense counsel and other presenters from across the commonwealth.

The first program in the series will focus on getting to know the court. Expert panelists, including judges from across the commonwealth, will discuss their courtroom practices, what they like to see from the prosecution and defense, and what needs work.

Hear from clerk magistrates on show cause hearings, the differences between summons and warrants, mit's v. habeas petitions.

The second half of this program will include a breakout session, where defense attorneys and ADAs will receive private trainings on best practices. Participants will have the opportunity to ask expert panelists a variety of questions on topics including:

  • Topics for ADAs:
    • How to succinctly recite a police report to the court
    • Traps for the unwary
    • How to speak with victims and discuss conditions with them
    • Working with defense counsel
  • Topics for defense counsel:
    • Meeting your client for the first time — telling your client’s story
    • Traps for the unwary
    • How to advise clients about conditions — making sure they are not being set up to fail
    • Working with ADAs

    This program is approved for 3 Criminal Appeals/ YAD Trial/ Criminal Trial credits .

    Special pricing is available for practitioners on the CAFL, YAD and MH Division panels, and government attorneys, who may attend for $25 per program. Call MBA Member Services to register at (617) 338-0530.

    This webinar will be hosted using Zoom. Registration is required by 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 13, to participate in this program. After you register with the MBA, please look for an email from MassBar Education with the Webinar ID and Password. The email will be sent before the program.

Location

Zoom Webinar