Mass. Trial. Ct. R. 3
"Compiled data" is defined in Rule 1(e). Although the Trial Court seeks to provide access to electronic court records for purposes of transparency and accountability, it is also concerned about the potential for unwarranted harm to litigants, victims, witnesses and jurors that can come with unfettered access. Much of the information obtained by the court from litigants and non-parties is not provided voluntarily, but is required by the court both to provide fair and timely resolution of cases and to enhance public safety. The Trial Court's case management databases, which result in electronic records, are created to support those functions. Further the manner of collection and the definition of certain data may not result in an accurate representation of the underlying cases. The discretion vested in the Court Administrator under this rule is intended to address these concerns.
Regular Compiled Reports. The Trial Court provides a list on its website of publicly available reports, including annual and quarterly reports. The Trial Court may provide some reports to the public at no charge and other reports may be provided upon payment of a fee or subscription.
Rule 3(a), Procedure for Making Requests. In making a request for compiled data, a requestor shall describe the scholarly, educational, journalistic, or governmental purpose of the request. It is within the discretion of the Court Administrator to deny requests that do not fit these purposes.
Rule 3(d), Conditions. The Court Administrator may condition the provision of compiled information on a requester signing an agreement limiting the use of the information. For example, the Court Administrator may require that such information not be resold or used for a commercial purpose, except journalistic purposes.