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SD 157

An Act protecting youth during custodial interrogations

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Cynthia Creem

Massachusetts bill requires police to notify parents and provide lawyers to minors before custodial questioning to prevent coercive interrogations and false youth confessions.

House concurred
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Bill Summary · SD 157

Legislative bill overview

SD 157 establishes protections for minors during police interrogations, requiring law enforcement to notify a parent or guardian and provide access to legal counsel before questioning juveniles in custody. The bill aims to prevent coercive interrogation practices and reduce false confessions among youth who may be developmentally unprepared to navigate custodial situations.

Why is this important

Young people are neurologically and psychologically vulnerable during interrogations due to incomplete brain development, limited life experience, and power imbalances with authority figures. Research demonstrates that minors are significantly more likely to confess falsely or incriminate themselves when questioned without legal representation or parental support, sometimes leading to wrongful convictions.

Potential points of contention

  • Law enforcement opposition: Police departments may argue the requirements create operational delays, complicate investigations, and reduce confession rates in cases where juveniles are genuinely guilty
  • Implementation costs: Requiring available attorneys and notification procedures could impose significant financial burdens on municipalities and law enforcement agencies
  • Definition ambiguity: Questions about what constitutes "custodial interrogation," how quickly notification must occur, and exceptions for emergency situations may create legal challenges and inconsistent application

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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