Motor Vehicle Stops: What Judges Need to Know (In-Person Program)

Motor Vehicle Stops are often the beginning of a chain of events that lead to persons being arrested and charged with crimes ranging from impaired driving to unlawful possession of guns, drugs, and other contraband. In such cases, the driver or passengers may face severe, mandatory sentences. These cases also frequently involve legal issues regarding the admissibility of statements made by the driver or a passenger, and, of course, searches of their persons and/or the vehicle. In addition, the vehicle stopped may be impounded.

Judicial rulings made on pretrial motions to suppress evidence derived from motor vehicle stops are often outcome determinative in cases involving both adults and juveniles. This afternoon program will address appellate court guidance on factual findings by trial judges (e.g., “I find” versus “There was evidence that”). It will also cover legal issues that commonly arise in these cases including the justification for stops, selective enforcement based on race and ethnicity, and issues that arise after the stop, such as exit orders, pat frisks, and searches of the vehicle.

This in-person, live event is being offered in conjunction with the release of FJI’s newest publication, Massachusetts Motor Vehicle Stops: Judicial Reference Guide, 2023 Edition. The program will serve as an indispensable primer for new judges and a “nuts and bolts” review for experienced Massachusetts judges. Its agenda will be built around hypothetical fact patterns that will invite give and take between the panelists and the attendees.

Advance registration is necessary. Lunch will be provided. Space is limited. Sign up now to secure your spot. Questions? Feel free to contact us at: programs@flaschner.org.