Massachusetts bar advocates strike, demanding higher pay

Massachusetts bar advocates representing indigent clients have ceased their work until they receive a pay increase, impacting the state's public defense system. The attorneys, who handle 80% of public defender cases, are protesting their $65 per hour rate, the lowest in the region, which has led to a shortage of lawyers willing to take on these cases. A rally was held Tuesday at the Statehouse. The advocates, citing rising costs and stagnant wages, are seeking legislative action to address the issue, hoping to improve the quality and availability of legal representation for those who cannot afford it.