The Sixth Amendment to the United States Constitution provides that a person accused of a crime has the right to be confronted with the witnesses against him (the confrontation clause), and states that:

“In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury of the state and district wherein the crime shall have been committed, which district shall have been previously ascertained by law, and to be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation; to be confronted with the witnesses against him; to have compulsory process for obtaining witnesses in his favor, and to have the assistance of counsel for his defense.”

In Massachusetts, as in all states, the Sixth Amendment of the United States Constitution is fully applicable and provides critical protections for individuals accused of crimes. The right to a speedy and public trial ensures that defendants are not subjected to prolonged incarceration before trial and that the proceedings are open to the public to promote transparency. The requirement for an impartial jury means that the jury must be free of bias and represent a cross-section of the community. The 'confrontation clause' guarantees that defendants have the opportunity to cross-examine witnesses who testify against them, which is a fundamental aspect of a fair trial. Defendants must also be informed of the charges against them so they can prepare an adequate defense. Additionally, they have the right to subpoena witnesses in their favor and to have the assistance of an attorney. If a defendant cannot afford an attorney, one will be provided at the state's expense. Massachusetts state statutes and court rules provide further details on how these rights are implemented, ensuring that the principles of the Sixth Amendment are upheld in the state's criminal justice system.