Massachusetts General Laws ch. 263A sec. 1 – Definitions
Section 1. For the purposes of this chapter, the following words shall have the following meanings:—
Terms Used In Massachusetts General Laws ch. 263A sec. 1
- Probation: A sentencing alternative to imprisonment in which the court releases convicted defendants under supervision as long as certain conditions are observed.
- Subpoena: A command to a witness to appear and give testimony.
- Trial: A hearing that takes place when the defendant pleads "not guilty" and witnesses are required to come to court to give evidence.
”Board”, the witness protection board established in section 2.
”Prosecuting officer”, the attorney general or a district attorney from each county.
”Critical witness”, any person who is participating, has participated, or is reasonably expected to participate in a criminal investigation, motion hearing, trial, show cause hearing, or other criminal proceeding, or a proceeding involving an alleged violation of conditions of probation or parole, or the commitment of a sexually dangerous person pursuant to chapter 123A; or who has received a subpoena requiring such participation; who is, or was, in the judgment of the prosecuting officer, a necessary witness at one or more of the aforementioned types of proceedings, and who is or may be endangered by such person’s participation in the aforementioned proceeding; or such person’s relatives, guardians, friends or associates, who are or may be endangered by such person’s participation in the aforementioned proceeding.