Massachusetts Courts Dismiss 120+ Cases Amid Public Defender Strike

Over 100 criminal cases in Massachusetts have been dismissed due to an ongoing strike by court-appointed public defenders demanding higher pay, leaving nearly 2,700 defendants without legal representation. Boston Municipal Court Chief Justice Tracy-Lee Lyons dismissed more than 120 cases, including violent offenses, because defendants could not secure lawyers amid the work stoppage that began after Memorial Day. State law mandates release of defendants without counsel after seven days and case dismissal after 45 days if no attorney is assigned, causing significant disruptions in the justice system. Some dismissed cases involve serious charges, such as assault, attempted strangulation, and threats against police, raising concerns about public safety. Suffolk County District Attorney’s office described the situation as a "clear and continuing threat to public safety" and emphasized efforts to keep victims informed. The strike has prompted criticism from law enforcement officials who called the lawyers' actions "irresponsible" and "selfish," warning that the breakdown in legal representation undermines the entire court system.