BOSTON — Governor Maura T. Healey made waves in the legal community yesterday when Healey announced court nominations, putting forward two significant names. Accordingly, Audrey Murillo has been nominated to the Massachusetts Juvenile Court, and Michael Pineault has been tapped for the Massachusetts Superior Court. The Governor’s Council is presently set to review these nominations.
Governor Healey Announces Court Nominees
Governor Healey expressed confidence in her new court nominees. In addition to their robust professional backgrounds, both Murillo and Pineault come with strong recommendations. Lt. Governor Kim Driscoll emphasized their hard work, capability, and extensive experience. Both candidates, she noted, have garnered high praise in their respective legal communities.
“I’m excited to nominate these exceptional attorneys to the Courts. Audrey Murillo has demonstrated a knowledge of the juvenile system and a commitment to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of the children of Massachusetts. Michael Pineault has dedicated his career to public service and upholding the rule of law. We’re grateful for the work of the Governor’s Council as they consider these two nominations.”
Governor Maura Healey
Audrey Carr Murillo: An Expert in Juvenile Justice
Audrey Carr Murillo stands out as a leading figure in juvenile justice. She’s not only well-versed in legal matters related to the youth but also has an impressive record in defense. Presently, Murillo plays a pivotal role at Harvard Law School’s Criminal Justice Institute, guiding and overseeing students representing indigent clients. Meanwhile, her earlier roles have seen her as a Supervising Attorney in Suffolk County and as Counsel to Dhar Law, LLP.
Murillo’s commitment to juvenile justice extends beyond her direct legal work. For the past two years, she has chaired the Massachusetts Bar Association’s Juvenile Justice and Child Welfare Section Council. She boasts a long-standing affiliation with the council, having been a member for seven years. Her educational background includes a B.A. from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, and a J.D. from the New England School of Law. She currently resides in Milton with her family.
The Juvenile Court, which Murillo is nominated to, focuses on safeguarding children, bolstering families, and promoting public safety. With jurisdiction over a range of civil and criminal matters, the department has a considerable presence with 42 judges and more than 40 courthouses. For those seeking additional details about the Juvenile Court, their official homepage provides comprehensive information.
Michael Pineault: A Versatile Legal Mind
With over three decades in law, Michael Pineault is a seasoned litigator, having significant experience in both defense and prosecution. Currently, he serves as Counsel at Anderson & Kreiger LLP. Previously, he was part of Clements & Pineault LLP as a Co-Founder and Partner. Notably, Pineault’s resume includes a ten-year stint as an Assistant U.S. Attorney and a role as Deputy Chief Legal Counsel to former Governor Deval Patrick. He started his illustrious career under the tutelage of Judge Hugh H. Bownes of the United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit. Pineault is an alumnus of Dartmouth College and Harvard Law School and calls Wayland his home.
The Massachusetts Superior Court, where Pineault is nominated, is of paramount importance in the state’s judiciary system. This trial court, comprising 82 justices across 14 counties, oversees various civil and criminal matters. Additionally, earlier this month, Governor Healey also nominated Adam L. Sisitsky and Tracy E. Duncan to the Superior Court.
Governor Maura Healey’s Commitment to Criminal Justice Reform
As Governor Healey announces court nominations, her commitment to reshaping the criminal justice landscape in Massachusetts remains evident in her recent strategic appointments. Championing reforms and pushing for a more equitable system, Healey has recently nominated Sarah B. Coughlin to the critical Massachusetts Parole Board. Additionally, her new appointments to the Massachusetts Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Commission underscore her dedication to further refining and modernizing criminal justice practices in the state. These decisions, among others, mark a promising trajectory towards a more just and transparent legal system for all Massachusetts residents.
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