Criminal Justice Law Reform

For decades, the ACLU of Massachusetts has worked for criminal justice law reforms to end our reliance on incarceration, eliminate racial disparities in the system, and reinvest in public health and human needs.

Yellow graphic with blue image of a court room. .In the center left there is a gavel, and on the right is an image of handcuff being broken open.

We’re fighting for a justice system that will put an end to mass incarceration, eliminate racial disparities, decriminalize substance use disorders, and stop excessive punishments.

As a matter of principle, the ACLU also believes the death penalty is inherently wrong. Capital punishment violates our most basic principles of due process and equal protection. For these reasons, we pledge to keep defending the ban on state-sanctioned executions in Massachusetts.

The Latest


Resource
Placeholder image

Smart Justice means a broad array of reforms

Resource
Placeholder image

Addressing opioid addiction: treatment, not jail

News & Commentary
Light blue collage with lady justice, and a red court room

District attorneys hold enormous power to advance racial justice. Here’s why your vote matters.

This fall, we must elect district attorneys in Massachusetts who will commit to using their power responsibly, fairly, and justly in order to confront racial disparities and bias in our criminal legal system.
News & Commentary
Maroon collage of various criminal justice items including handcuffs, a gavel, and barbed wire.

District attorneys should fight to reform mandatory minimum sentencing. Your vote can help make this happen.

This fall, we must vote with our values and demand that district attorneys in Massachusetts work to create a fairer criminal legal system for all.

Cases, Campaigns & Legislation


Court Case
Nov 26, 2018

Linsenmeir v. City of Springfield and Estate of Madelyn E. Linsenmeir v. City of Springfield

The ACLU is seeking justice for a young woman denied medical care in state custody.
Court Case
Mar 26, 2024

ACLU of Massachusetts v. Bristol District Attorney’s Office

Court Case
Jun 21, 2022

Stilphen v. City of Boston

The ACLU of Massachusetts, together with law firm Goodwin Procter LLP, filed a civil rights lawsuit on behalf of the family of Shayne Stilphen for his wrongful death while in the custody of the Boston Police Department.
Court Case
Nov 5, 2021

Geddes v. City of Boston

The ACLU of Massachusetts and law firm WilmerHale filed a lawsuit to protect the constitutional rights and safety of people living unhoused in the area of Melnea Cass Boulevard and Massachusetts Avenue in Boston.