BOSTON — Today, Governor Charlie Baker announced the nomination of Sharon F. Lalli as Associate Justice of the Falmouth District Court, and James M. Murphy as Associate Justice of the Newton District Court. Attorneys Lalli and Murphy have more than 40 years of combined legal experience.
“The many decades Attorneys Lalli and Murphy have spent handling cases and managing busy courtrooms have prepared them well to serve as Associate Justices of the District Court," said Governor Charlie Baker. "I am pleased to submit these candidates to the Governor's Council for their advice and consent."
"Over the course of their careers, Attorneys Lalli and Murphy have both demonstrated their dedication to justice and public service," said Lt. Governor Karyn Polito. "If confirmed, I am confident that they will serve the Commonwealth well as Associate Justices of the District Court."
The District Court hears a wide range of criminal, civil, housing, juvenile, mental health, and other types of cases. District Court criminal jurisdiction extends to all felonies punishable by a sentence up to 5 years, and many other specific felonies with greater potential penalties, all misdemeanors, and all violations of city and town ordinances and bylaws. In civil matters, District Court judges conduct both jury and jury-waived trials, and make final determinations on any matter where the likelihood of recovery is no more than $50,000 (for cases commenced on or after January 1, 2020).
The District Court also tries small claims involving up to $7,000 (initially tried to a magistrate, where the defense has a right of appeal either to a judge or a jury). If confirmed by the Governor’s Council, Attorney Lalli will fill the seat vacated by the Honorable Kevin J. Cunningham, and Attorney Murphy will fill the seat vacated by the Honorable Daniel C. Crane.
Original source can be found here.
