“We respect the ruling of Judge Govendo,” said Attorney General Edward Buckingham on Saturday. “The issuance of a TRO is the first, expedited step in the process of judicial review. TROs are special proceedings designed to allow the Court to issue immediate orders. In cases of domestic violence, TROs are granted quickly so that victims of crime can get immediate court protection. The process is quick and the opportunity for a full evidentiary hearing comes later.”
A written decision from Govendo is expected next week. Asked what will happen next, Buckingham said, “We will review the court’s decision and determine how best to respond. There are some preliminary concerns of a legal nature, but cases are best tried in the courtroom, not in the media.”
The decision was issued by the Superior Court. Asked whether the case should remain there, Buckingham said, “It is not appropriate to comment on legal strategy. However, it’s fair to say that the commonwealth will carefully review both substantive and procedural issues to ensure that the law is followed in the appropriate forum.”
