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.

White graphic with three images layered. A purple square image of metal bars, a blue image of a gavel, and an orange image of baby justice

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
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Smart Justice means a broad array of reforms

Resource
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Addressing opioid addiction: treatment, not jail

Press Release
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ACLU of Massachusetts Statement on Counsel Crisis Following Oral Arguments at Supreme Judicial Court

When the state fails to create a system where indigent defense attorneys can afford to do their work, the most vulnerable defendants pay the cost. The court must step in and exercise its authority to protect the constitutional right to counsel.
Issue Areas: Criminal Justice Law Reform, Economic Justice
Press Release
ACLUM Responds to Supreme Court Decision in Grants Pass V. Johnson

ACLU of Massachusetts responds to Supreme Court decision in Grants Pass v. Johnson

Make no mistake: We cannot arrest our way out of homelessness. Instead, communities must prioritize proven solutions, like making housing more affordable and providing accessible and voluntary treatment.
Issue Areas: Criminal Justice Law Reform, Economic Justice
Legislation
Jan 30, 2019

Civil Rights in Massachusetts Courts

Create a new avenue for people to seek redress when government actors violate individuals’ civil rights.
Legislation
Jan 30, 2019

Forfeiture Reform

This bill requires that a person be convicted of a crime before the government can take their private property.
Legislation
Jan 30, 2019

Criminal System Transparency

Guarantee that data collection and reporting required by the landmark 2018 criminal justice reform bill includes district attorneys.
Legislation
Jan 30, 2019

Treatment, Not Imprisonment

Incarceration disrupts treatment and endangers recovery.