The Massachusetts Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (MACDL) has called on the Legislature to address declining compensation rates for bar advocates, which has resulted in a significant number of unrepresented defendants. In Boston, over 150 individuals await court-appointed attorneys, with many detained without legal representation. MACDL President Shira Diner stressed that the right to counsel is essential for justice and warned of a constitutional crisis if the situation isn't rectified. The inadequate pay has led to seasoned attorneys leaving the field and difficulty in recruiting new representation, resulting in a detrimental impact on the legal process.
The Massachusetts Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers warned that low compensation rates are causing a crisis, leading to unrepresented defendants and a constitutional breakdown.
MACDL President Shira Diner stated, 'The right to counsel is not a luxury,' emphasizing its foundational role in ensuring a just legal system regardless of financial status.
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