Boston's judicial landscape is poised for a shift as Judge Dana M. Gershengorn steps into the role of Chief Justice of the Juvenile Court, a position she is slated to begin on June 29, 2024. She will be taking over from Chief Justice Amy L. Nechtem, who is retiring after a 23-year tenure on the Juvenile Court, according to an announcement made by Trial Court Chief Justice Heidi E. Brieger.

The transition comes at a time when the importance of addressing the needs of children and families through the legal system is ever more pressing. Chief Justice Brieger expressed confidence in Gershengorn's capacity to lead, citing her "thoughtful and clear approach, legal acumen, and judicial temperament," according to mass.gov. Brieger also noted that Gershengorn understands the critical nature of resolving legal issues promptly, ensuring permanent placements for children.

In her response to the appointment, Judge Gershengorn expressed her gratitude and readiness to further the objectives of the court. "It's an honor and privilege to have the opportunity to serve as the next Chief Justice of the Juvenile Court and to have the confidence of Chief Justice Brieger and my colleagues," she said. "I appreciate the excellent stewardship of Chief Justice Nechtem and look forward to collaborating with my judicial colleagues to drive the court’s priorities forward," as reported by mass.gov.

Chief Justice Brieger praised Nechtem for her introduction of the PATHS (Prevention and Treatment for the Health and Safety of Children and Families) Family Treatment Courts, describing it as a first in the nation model. Judge Gershengorn, who is taking the reins, has a history in legal work that includes serving in the Plymouth County Juvenile Court Division since her appointment to the Juvenile Court in 2009, she has also co-chaired the Trial Court’s Innovation Grant Committee, and has been a part of several other pivotal committees.

Before her judgeship, Gershengorn's career encompassed positions such as assistant district attorney and assistant attorney general in Massachusetts, as well as trial attorney for the U.S. Department of Justice in Washington, D.C. With her accumulated experience, Judge Gershengorn, along with Court Administrator Thomas G. Ambrosino, will reappoint Thomas R. Capasso as Deputy Court Administrator for the Juvenile Court. The Juvenile Court Department, comprising 11 divisions with 42 judicial positions, continues its work across the Commonwealth to address the complexities of juvenile legal matters.