Massachusetts Request for Discovery, how & when?

[needadvice88]

What is the name of your state? Massachusetts

I got a stop sign ticket. In another thread, I was advised to file a request for discovery. I have not mailed in my ticket for appeal yet, still have about 15 days. If I want to see the officer's notes and evidence, when and where should I file the request? Should I wait until the clerk magistrate hearing, or before I send in the ticket for appeal, or after I request trial before a judge? thanks.

[Orcons]

Originally Posted by needadvice88

What is the name of your state? Massachusetts

I got a stop sign ticket. In another thread, I was advised to file a request for discovery. I have not mailed in my ticket for appeal yet, still have about 15 days. If I want to see the officer's notes and evidence, when and where should I file the request? Should I wait until the clerk magistrate hearing, or before I send in the ticket for appeal, or after I request trial before a judge? thanks.

You send the request to the police department in the city that issued the ticket. If it was the state police you send it to the trooper's barracks. You can request it at any point. I would request it now so I knew what I was dealing with. They have 10 days to respond. Look at the National Motorists Association web site, they have a page for Mass that explains how to make the request.

[needadvice88]

Thank you for pointing me to that great site! If they don't respond, or if they respond after 10 days, will it be reason enough to bring it up during the magistrate hearing to dismiss the case? or must I wait until the second round with a judge? If they don't respond within 10 days, am I obligated to send in another request again if I still have time before the court date? thanks