A Massachusetts Clerk Magistrates hearing is held to see if there is enough to charge someone with a criminal offense. A Massachusetts Clerk Magistrates hearing is also known as a Show Cause hearing.
What is Massachusetts Show Cause Hearing?
A clerk magistrates hearing is a hearing on an application for a criminal complaint. It is also called a “show cause hearing.” A Clerk Magistrate’s hearing is held to determine if there is enough evidence for a criminal complaint to issue. If there is enough evidence the complaint will issue and the case will be scheduled for an arraignment. If there is not enough evidence and the clerk magistrate declines to issue the complaint the case will end and there will be no record of the hearing.
You may be required to attend a magistrate’s hearing even if you have not been arrested. If you receive a summons for a Clerk Magistrate’s hearing you MUST appear. A criminal complaint will issue against you if you miss your show cause hearing.
A Clerk Magistrate’s hearing a less formal proceeding. A clerk magistrate conducts the hearing. A clerk is not a judge. rather than a judge. The clerk will consider all of the evidence before him or her. After considering all of the evidence they decide whether a criminal complaint should issue. This is your opportunity to present your case. Show cause hearings are also an opportunity to resolve cases before there is a criminal complaint. Magistrates are supposed to only determine if probable cause exists. However, many clerks resolve cases using alternative dispositions. One example is holding a case open, dismissing it on community service or fines are just some examples of alternative dispositions.
Experienced Massachusetts Clerk Magistrates Hearing Attorney
Attorney Patrick Donovan is a former prosecutor that has successfully represented clients at many Massachusetts Clerk-Magistrate hearings. Clerk magistrates hearings have included larceny, larceny by check, shoplifting, reckless driving, motor vehicle charges, negligent operation, drug charges. Attorney Donovan has appeared in over fifty criminal courts in Massachusetts.
This may be the only opportunity you will have to protect your criminal record!
Best Massachusetts Clerk Magistrate Hearing Lawyer
Patrick T. Donovan has successfully represented many people at show cause charged with felonies or misdemeanors in Boston and in Massachusetts. Also, Attorney Patrick T. Donovan, fights for the best possible outcome for each and every one of his clients.
Call today for your free initial consultation at 617-479-1800.
