Normally, misdemeanor criminal cases in Massachusetts are begun by the D.A. issuing a complaint. A Clerk Magistrate's Hearing is given in certain cases to determine whether or not that complaint should issue. So it actually happens before the arraignment, and it is a chance to avoid the arraignment. It's to determine whether there is probable cause to believe that the crime was commited, and was commited by that defendant. I'm Sam Goldberg, lead counsel for criminal defense matters at Altman & Altman, in Cambridge, Massachusetts. I have 25 years of experience. If you're in trouble and you need someone in your corner, who cares and will fight for you, give me a call.
