Resolved, 1.) A Resolve to review, consider, evaluate, and/or replace, the Grand Jury
System as is known, and to establish a suitable body and/or Special Commission to consider this
matter.
2.) Over many years, the utility, and fairness, of the Grand Jury System, has been called
into question. Recent events in various local area locations, states, and other jurisdictions
have furtherĀ raised questions as to its proper role, if any, in a properly functioning system
of justice.
3.) The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, having been a pioneer in reform of various
legal procedures, should consider such changes as are appropriate in this area.
4.) It has been suggested that since the Grand Jury System originated in England and/or
Great Britain, that we are influenced by it. Thus, the apparent fact that its use in England, and/or
Great Britain has apparently been largely ended, should raise questions, as to whether we
continue to use it ourselves.
Other jurisdictions, across The United States, have also eliminated the use of Grand Juries, at
least in their present form, and this further suggests the need for analysis as to their use.
5.) A Special Commission shall be established by this Resolve, and/or additional suitable
legislation, to investigate, and recommend, appropriate actions, and reforms.
6.) Upon the establishment of a suitable Special Commission, it should consider relevant
alternative legal mechanisms, including examining available data, and information, as to result,
results; and streamlined processes by which appropriate charges may, and/or must be brought to
Courts, by appropriate standards.
7.) Membership of such a Commission, shall include the Dean of each Law School, in
Massachusetts, or their designee; the Constitutional Officers of Massachusetts, or their
designees; at least one (1) individual appropriate representative each, of the Judiciary, Law
Enforcement including District Attorneys, and Sheriffs, members of the general law profession,
representatives of constituencies, particularly concerned with the legal process such as legal
defenders, and legal reformers; and other relevant individuals. The Commission, shall select
a Chair, and a Vice Chair, from the membership of the body, and shall be authorized to
expend reasonable expenses, to accomplish their responsibilities.
8.) The Governor, and the Attorney General, shall be the Co-Appointing individuals, for
the members of this Commission.
9.) This Commission shall hold public hearings, at no less than five (5) distinct locations,
including the Capital City of Boston, and four other regional locations, and collect useful
information, including that of historical legal development; shall make general findings, useful
analysis, and specific recommendations. Since these matters are important, a timely report
should be issued within twenty-four (24) months, from the completion of the appointments of its
members.
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