Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has recently put forward a list of five nominees for the Massachusetts Superior Court, a move signaling her administration's continued commitment to reinforcing the judicial system. Among the nominees whose credentials and backgrounds are soon to undergo the scrutiny of the Governor’s Council for confirmation, are individuals deeply rooted in various aspects of law, from criminal defense to public service and administration.
Among the names released in a statement from the governor's office, are John Fraser, an experienced trial attorney with expertise in both criminal defense and civil litigation, and Keren Goldenberg, a defense lawyer with notable involvement in federal and juvenile court cases. "I'm proud to nominate these experienced attorneys to the Superior Court, and I'm confident they will make excellent additions to our justice system," Governor Healey stated.
Notably, these Superior Court roles carry a significant obligation, possessing jurisdiction over severe and complex cases including first-degree murder, with the Court’s 82 justices serving in 20 courthouses across all state counties. The appointed judges will be instrumental in upholding the tenets of justice, ranging from civil actions over $50,000 to matters requiring equitable relief, alongside convening medical malpractice tribunals and overseeing naturalization sittings.
Completing the list are Julie Green, the current Deputy Chief of the Constitutional & Administrative Law Division with a strong appellate background, and Matthew Nestor, a seasoned Associate Justice with nearly two decades of bench experience. Deepika Shukla is a current Assistant United States Attorney and branch office lead with a track record in prosecuting a breadth of cases. All nominees are defined by their peers and the communities they serve not just by their legal acumen but also by their diverse experiences in private practice, public defense, and government service.
These nominations arrive during a period when the integrity and efficiency of the judicial branch are being closely watched by Massachusetts citizens. The Governor’s Council's assessment of the suitability of each nominee for the critical role they may soon play in administering justice across the state is an essential process that fosters public trust in the courts.
