Legal Question in Traffic Law in Massachusetts

Police procedure

I received a moving violation citation in the mail based solely upon the complaint of a civilian motorist. Can the police issue citations in Massachusetts based upon the word of a civilian motorist?


Asked on 3/24/04, 5:58 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Joseph Murray Joseph M. Murray, Esq.

Re: Police procedure

The relevant statute contains language allowing a police officer to issue a citation if alleged violations are "brought to his attention". If the citation alleges ONLY civil infractions you have 20 days to appeal as stated on the reverse of the citation. If criminal infractions are listed and checked you must file within 4 days a request for a hearing before a clerk magistrate. You would be well advised to retain an attorney as their are other issues that could be better addressed in an office consultation.

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Answered on 3/24/04, 7:49 pm


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