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Bill

H 1605

An Act relative to juror comprehension

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mike Chaisson and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts bill requires courts to give every juror a physical information card that clearly defines trial charges and legal terms, with replacement on request.

Hearing rescheduled to 11/04/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-1 and Virtual Hearing updated to New End Time
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Bill Summary · H 1605

Summary of H.1605: An Act relative to juror comprehension

Purpose and intent

H.1605 seeks to improve juror understanding by ensuring that jurors receive clear, written definitions of the charges and legal terms relevant to the trial in which they are serving. The bill would require a physical information card provided to each juror, with the contents defined by the court, and allow replacement of the card upon request. The overarching goal is to enhance juror comprehension of trial terminology and charges to support fair and informed deliberations.

Key provisions

  • Amend Section 62 of Chapter 234A of the General Laws (as appearing in the 2022 Official Edition).
  • After the word “terminology.” in line 7, insert:
    • “The court shall provide each juror a physical information card clearly defining the charges and legal terms applicable to the trial for which the juror was selected. The court shall replace the card upon request.”
  • The card must clearly define the charges and legal terms relevant to the juror’s trial.

Who is affected

  • Jurors serving on trials in Massachusetts trial courts (the information card is intended to aid their understanding of charges and legal terminology).
  • Courts and court staff, who would be responsible for producing, distributing, and, if needed, replacing the information cards.
  • The Massachusetts Judiciary, which would implement the card program within existing court processes.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Introduced: February 27, 2025.
  • Referred to the Judiciary Committee for consideration (House action shows concurrent referrals and committee placement).
  • Legislative actions show ongoing scheduling with a hearing updated to November 4, 2025 (A-1 and virtual options). Prior notices also show a November 4, 2025 hearing window.
  • Sponsorship: Primary sponsor Michael S. Chaisson; cosponsor Marcus S. Vaughn.
  • Related measure: House Bill 1395 from the 2023-2024 session; HD 1269 is listed as a replacement or related bill.

Potential impact and considerations

  • Expected benefits: Improved juror comprehension of charges and legal terminology could support more accurate understanding of trial proceedings and deliberations.
  • Costs and implementation: Courts would incur printing and distribution costs for physical information cards and would need to maintain replacement procedures; the bill does not specify funding.
  • Scope: The measure focuses on defined terms and charges, not on broader juror instruction materials or juror questionnaires.

Notes

  • The bill is labeled as “An Act relative to juror comprehension” and targets clarity in juror information through a standardized physical card issued during trials.
  • The language emphasizes a physical card and replacement upon request, rather than a digital alternative.

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

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