Ever since Artificial Intelligence has become a staple in professional research, there is a new term that is entering the judicial lexicon: hallucination. This occurs when a Large Language Model (LLM) generates a response that is confident, authoritative, and...
Merrimack Valley Legal Blog
When the innocent are arrested: understanding your rights and legal options
An arrest can happen to anyone due to mistaken identity, procedural errors, or incomplete investigations. Understanding the specific mechanics of the legal system is the first step toward restoring your liberty and, equally important, your permanent record. The...
Wrongful arrest in Massachusetts: Charges dismissed – can you sue for false arrest?
An arrest in Massachusetts can upend your life in hours. Handcuffs, booking, a night in custody, missed work and public embarrassment can happen quickly but have a long-lasting impact on your life. When the case ends in a dismissal or a not guilty finding, you may...
Qualified immunity explained: Why police can be sued even when they claim immunity
Police officers should protect the peace and help uphold the law. Occasionally, law enforcement professionals fail to uphold their responsibilities to the community. They may act in ways that endanger the very people they should protect and serve. Individuals harmed...
Was This Excessive Force? How Massachusetts Law Protects Victims of Police Violence
Many people walk away from a police encounter feeling shaken, injured or confused about whether what happened was lawful. If force was used during an arrest or stop, it is common to wonder if officers crossed a line. All too often, the “line” commonly referred to as...
How Body Cameras, Dashcams and Digital Evidence Can Help Victims of Police Misconduct in Massachusetts
Police officers are agents of the state. As such, their authority is subject to certain legal limitations. Unfortunately, some law enforcement professionals do engage in misconduct that infringes on the rights of the people with whom they interact. For example,...
What should I know about the duress defense?
The defense of duress is a legal argument used to excuse a defendant's actions when they commit a crime due to immediate threats of harm. It acknowledges that the individual facing allegations of criminal activity acted under pressure from another party, often in...
I’m innocent but they arrested me – now what?
Facing arrest when you know you’ve done nothing wrong is both shocking and overwhelming. The experience can leave you feeling powerless, frustrated, and unsure of what steps to take next—especially if the charges are ultimately dropped But being arrested without a...
When do workplace accommodations become an undue hardship?
Employers in Massachusetts are legally obligated to provide an inclusive work environment and ensure equal opportunities for everyone. This includes providing reasonable workplace accommodations for employees with disabilities. Workplace accommodations are adjustments...
Can your employer reduce pay for hours you already worked?
You’re hired to do a specific job at a certain pay rate. Perhaps your employer says that you’ll be paid $30 an hour, and you’re excited to take the job. It’s going to pay you enough to accommodate your budget and it seems like a good fit based on the work required....