In 2012, the Legislature enacted G.L. c. 278A, “An Act providing access to forensic and scientific analysis.” This Act was intended to remedy the injustice of wrongful convictions by allowing defendants claiming factual innocence access to forensic and scientific analysis of evidence or biological material, the results of which could support a motion for a new trial.
In accordance with the Middlesex District Attorney’s Office’s commitment to identifying wrongful convictions, it is our policy to work cooperatively with a defendant and their counsel and assent to testing where the requirements of c. 278A have been satisfied.
A defendant or their counsel may request forensic testing either via formal motion with the court or the CIU’s “Application for Review.” The CIU will review all requests for forensic testing in accordance with the below guidelines.