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SUSTAINING MEMBERS
Alekman DiTusa, LLC*
Annino, Draper & Moore, P.C.*
Bacon Wilson, P.C.*
Bulkley, Richardson & Gelinas, LLP*
Cooley Shrair, P.C.*
Dalsey, Ferrara & Albano*
DiSanti Law Offices*
Doherty, Wallace, Pillsbury & Murphy, P.C.*
Dunn & Wilson*
Egan, Flanagan & Cohen, P.C.*
Hare, Stamm & Harris, P.C.*
Katz Argenio, P.C.
Law Office of Thomas A. Kenefick, III*
Law Offices of Thomas M. Libbos, P.C.*
Lyon & Fitzpatrick, LLP*
Peskin, Courchesne & Allen, P.C.*
Robinson Donovan, P.C.*
Ryan & Downey, P.C.*
Szlachetka Dubay, P.C.*
Welch & Barba, P.C.*
Robert H. Astor, Esq.*
Steven L. Baumohl, Esq.*
Eugene B. Berman, Esq.*
Patricia A. Bobba-Donovan, Esq.
Hon. Henry J. Boroff*
Carol J. Kantany-Casartello, Esq.*
Charles R. Casartello, Jr. Esq.*
Lance S. Chavin, Esq.*
Michael J. Chernick, Esq.
David K. Chivers, Esq.
Hon. James G. Collins
Hon. Philip A. Contant*
Hon. Rebekah J. Crampton-Kamukala*
Jane E. Crosby, Esq.*
Jennifer Midura-D’Amour, Esq.*
Theodore E. Dimauro, Esq.*
William J. Doherty, Esq.*
Philip M. Duda, Esq.*
Hon. Patricia M. Dunbar*
Hon. Nancy Dusek-Gomez*
Margaret E. Eckert, Esq.*
Hal Etkin, Esq.
Jack Ferriter, Esq.*
Hon. Linda S. Fidnick*
Stephanie A. Fitzgerald, Esq.
William D. Fitzpatrick, Esq.*
Chester E. Flavin, Esq.*
Hon. Daniel A. Ford*
Anthony Gallant, Esq.
Mary E. Gallant, Esq.
Richard D. Gelinas, Esq.*
Hon. Anne M. Geoffrion*
Alfred J. Geoffrion, Jr., Esq.*
Hon. Ann M. Gibbons*
Claudette-Jean Girard, Esq.*
Fredi Ann Goldman, Esq.
Efrem A. Gordon, Esq.*
Marie P. Grady, Esq.
Hon. John M. Greaney*
Kyle R. Guelcher, Esq.
Hon. Mary E. Hurley*
Hon. Barbara M. Hyland*
Hon. Bertha D. Josephson*
Hon. George C. Keady, Jr.*
Hon. C. Jeffrey Kinder*
Hon. Robert F. Kumor, Jr.
David A. Ladizki, Esq.*
Paul G. Lalonde, Esq.*
David L. Lorenzi, Esq.*
Stephen P. Maidman, Esq.*
S. Thomas Martinelli, Esq.
Hon. Mark D Mason*
Peter D. Mazza, Esq.*
Hon. C. Brian McDonald
John P. McKenna, Esq.*
John McNally, Esq.*
Randy J. Milou, Esq.*
Richard C. Morrissey, Esq.*
Hon. Michael E. Mulcahy
Christopher B. Myhrum, Esq.
Donna D. Nardi, Esq.*
Hon. Kenneth P. Neiman
Alison Bartlett-O'Donald, Esq.
Hon. Tina S. Page*
John J. Pajak, Esq.*
Hon. John M. Payne, Jr.*
Jill M. McCarthy Payne, Esq.*
Hon. Joseph A. Pellegrino
Hon. Gail L. Perlman*
Hon. Patricia T. Poehner*
Hon. Michael A. Ponsor*
Dennis P. Powers, Esq.
Mary P. Powers, Esq.*
Angelo J. Puppolo, Jr., Esq.*
Burton S. Resnic, Esq.
Hon. David S. Ross*
John D. Ross, III, Esq.
Catherine Z. Rossi, Esq.*
Hon. Rudolph A. Sacco
Hon. David G. Sacks*
Jeffrey B. Sagalyn, Esq.*
Hon. Bethzaida Sanabria-Vega*
Robert T. Santaniello, Esq.*
Hon. George A. Sheehy*
Hon. Kent B. Smith*
Eileen Z. Sorrentino, Esq.
Stephen E. Spelman, Esq.*
Hon. Daniel J. Swords
Jennifer A. Thorn, Esq.*
Karl W. Topor, Esq.*
Christina M. Turgeon, Esq.*
Hon. Ariane D. Vuono*
Hon. William T. Walsh*
*Sustaining Members over two consecutive years |
MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT THOMAS A. KENEFICK, III
November was a busy month for our Association. Here’s a sampling:
1. The Consumer Legal Clinic which up to this point had been operating out of State Street is now in the process of moving its facility into the Bar Association office. The grant money for the project dried up and, because of its importance to both the Association and the community it serves, the Board agreed to underwrite its net costs for a period of six months.
2. On November 29, 2011 we participated at the ceremony swearing in of six judicial officers. Governor Deval Patrick presided before a large assembled crowd at the Old First Church in Springfield. Although these men and women have been serving for several months it was nevertheless significant to recognize their assuming office in an official ceremony. In keeping with a venerable tradition, we presented robes to the newly sworn justices. They are: Judge Barbara M. Hyland of the Hampden County Probate & Family Court; Justice Bethzaida Sanabria-Vega of the Holyoke District Court and Justice Michael E. Mulcahy of the Springfield District Court. Additionally, three Clerk-Magistrates were also administered the ceremonial oath at that time, viz: John Gay of the Springfield District Court, Brian St. Onge of the Palmer District Court and Peter Montori of the Hampden County Housing Court. Congratulations to each and we wish them well in the next chapter of their careers.
3. As some of you know, recent legislation was enacted to create a task force to assess the status of the “Separate & Secure Waiting Area” created through the Massachusetts Victim’s Bill of Rights (MGL c.258B, §3(i). The mandate requires each courthouse to provide a separate room designed to insulate victims and witnesses from threats, intimidation and assaults from the defendant and/or his/her friends and family members
The task force visited the Hampden County Hall of Justice on December 5, 2011 to view the entire facility in order to make recommendations whether the building is in compliance with the statute. A preliminary read suggests that the Superior Court is in compliance; however, the District Court is not. There are of course a number of areas available that would satisfy the statute.
The Hampden County District Attorney’s office has focused on the space currently occupied by the Bar Association presumably on the basis that it would provide inter alia separate egress for victims who might be quartered in that area. The additional reasoning is that this expanded “available” space would be a convenient venue for the victim witness advocates to relocate their offices contiguous to the existing District Court District Attorney’s office.
We vigorously oppose this proposal for a number of reasons. First, the Bar Association and its office provide a face to our profession that is vitally important to the legal community and to those that pass by our doors for justice. Our Bar Association plays an important role in access to justice through grant programs, legal clinics and Lawyer Referral & Information Service. Indeed, we are in the process of creating a Lawyer for the Day Program for the District Court and an Access to Justice effort aimed at assisting pro se litigants to be operated out of these very offices. To that end, we have recently spent over $15,000 in improvements which have enhanced the presence of our facility. The results can only benefit everyone in this building, including the more than 900 members of the association that utilize this area for their clients, make copies and access the computer/internet.
Moreover, since we understand the applicable statute can be satisfied through the utilization of much less space than the absorption of our facility, it does not seem to make any good sense to move our offices to a different location (e.g., the existing retirement office on the 2nd floor) merely to accommodate the expansion of the District Attorney’s District Court office to acquire our facility to provide additional office space for victim advocates. There are other functional venues in the building.
We attempted to convey these points to the members of the task force during the walk through at which Noreen and I represented the Bar Association. Several members of the District Attorney’s office also participated in the exercise. The outcome may well rest with the task force recommendations which will be submitted to CJAM Robert Mulligan. I will keep you posted on developments that occur.
4. Finally, we have scheduled a holiday reception at the Hofbrauhas, 1105 Main Street, West Springfield on Wednesday, December 21, 2011 at 5:00 p.m. There will be h'ordeurves and a cash bar to celebrate the holiday season. I hope to see you there.
Happy Holidays.
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WELCOME TO OUR NEW MEMBERS
The Hampden County Bar Association would like to welcome the following attorneys and students as new members:
Anna Maria Kiaresh - Student
Jessica A. Levy, Esq.
Samuel M. Radner, Esq. - Haymond Law Firm, P.C.
Kelli A. Robbins, Esq. |
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MEMBER INFO
Congratulations to Attorney John S. Ferrara who was recently nominated by Governor Deval Patrick as Associate Justice of the Superior Court. Attorney Ferrara will fill the vacancy of retired Justice C. Brian McDonald.
Congratulations to retired Justice Nancy Dusek-Gomez who was recently crowned Ms. Senior Massachusetts! Judge Dusek-Gomez will now go on to compete at a national level. We wish her the best of luck!
Attorney Mary P. Powers has relocated her office to 680 Westfield Street, West Springfield, MA. Her telephone and fax remain the same.
Brodeur-McGan, P.C. has moved to 1380 Main Street, Suite 202, Springfield, MA 01103. The telephone number remains the same.
Thank you to Attorney Mary A. Socha for donating a ream of copy paper to the HCBA office. Donations are greatly appreciated!
Congratulations to the following Hampden County Bar Association members who won tickets to the Falcons hockey team home games for the month of November: Attorney Tricia L. McCabe, Attorney Mary A. Socha, Attorney Bernard S. Cohen, Attorney Mark G. Morisi and Attorney Kathleen Cavanaugh-Whitley. Go Falcons! |
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MEMBER BENEFITS
What is your HCBA Membership worth? Here are just a few examples…
Save 15 percent on all HCBA CLEs and Brown Bag Lunch Seminars
Save 15 percent on American Bar Association web store purchases including books, CLE course materials and other products - enter code PAB6EHCB upon checkout.
20 percent discount on UPS shipping through Unishippers.
20 percent discount on new subscriptions to LexisNexis Matthew Bender Publications and Annotate Laws of Massachusetts. For more information contact Suzanne Supina at (860) 604-8633 or via email at suzanne.supina@lexisnexis.com.
Save 20 percent on new LexisNexis Online Research Subscriptions
Save 30 percent on LexisNexis Total Practice Advantage Subscriptions
Save 25 percent on any website packages through ESQSites123.com. To access this benefit go to http://esqsites123.com/jumpPage/hcba/.
Reduced rates on credit card processing fees through First National Merchant Solutions. For more information contact Richard Rheault at (413) 527-1304 or via email at rrheault@fnni.com.
20 percent discount off Paychex payroll processing charges. For more information contact Jamie Scherban at (413) 731-8930 ext. 47954 or via email at jscherban@paychex.com. (Mention National Account Code 5712.)
20 percent discount off the purchase of new subscriptions to Westlaw Forms and on any print volume from West’s Massachusetts Practice Series.
15 percent discount on new subscriptions to West Case Notebook with LiveNote technology. Free trial for WestlawNext. Contact Karen Katz, Esq. at Karen.katz@thomsonreuters.com or 617-935-9331.
10 percent discount on Disability insurance with Standard Insurance Company
(Detailed information on the HCBA website)
Save 10 percent on legal transcription, depositions, video conferencing and a Waiver of set up fee transcription services and annual support fee with Catuogno Court Reporting & Sten-Tel Transcription Services. (Detailed information on HCBA website).
Save 15 percent on automotive maintenance/repair at Silk’s Auto Service, Inc., 51 Dale Street, Springfield, MA, (413) 733-9157.
$10.00 discount on Massage Therapy at Maleckas Therapeutic Massage, 501 Belmont Avenue, Springfield, MA, (413) 627-1410.
10 percent discount on computer repairs, data security, upgrades and installation of software for email encryption at Bob’s Computer Service, (413) 204-8339 or sysop@robertjgregory.com
20 percent of Shredding Services with ProShred - visit www.proshred.com
Millbrook Benefits, Axia Group & LePage Financial Services - visit www.millbrookbenefits.com
- Discounts on various insurance products including Professional Liability
- Waiver of annual fee of $125.00 to access group health insurance for small groups
- One stop shopping and personalized service
- Millbrook custom design insurance solutions to meet your specific needs
Pensions & Benefits Associates, Inc. - visit www.manta.com
- Reduce plan document fee
- Reduce base in per participant rates
Elm's Cleaners, 245 Elm Street, West Springfield, MA
- Free pickup and delivery anywhere in Hampden County
- Elm's Cleaners will go to your office or residence
- 10% on dry cleaning & minor tailoring (excluding shirts)
Hampden County Hall of Justice Member Benefits:
• Photocopier
• Computer Terminal with Internet access (now with USB capabilities)
• Wireless Internet
New Member Benefit
Hampden Bank
Hampden Bank would like to extend the following special offer to all members of the Hampden County Bar Association:
Professional Services: Line of Credit*-No application fee • No annual fee
Terms:
Credit Score Line Amount APR
700-749 $ 7,500 Prime +2.00%
750+ $10,000 Prime +1.00%
*requires an IOLTA Checking account with Hampden Bank
Certificate of Deposit Specials
Add .10% to the Annual Percentage Yield on any CD with a new Bright Choice Business Checking account.
Add .20% to the Annual Percentage Yield on any CD with a new Bright Choice Business Checking account and IOLTA Checking account.
Please contact Hector Toledo, Vice President Retail Sales Director, 413.335.3483.
Offer valid thru June 1, 2013. May be rescinded at any time.
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NOTE FROM IMMEDIATE PAST-PRESIDENT CHARLES R. CASARTELLO, JR.
Last week, I attended an Experts in Residence program entitled “A potpourri of Current Estate Related Issues. The seminar was lead by Hyman Darling who is regarded as one of the deans of estate planning and probate law. For two hours, Hyman regaled the audience with
information about current issues in estate tax, Massachusetts UPC, special needs trusts and
other matters. Hy used information for our Experts program which he had prepared for a national conference of probate luminaries earlier this month. The materials and Hy’s insights are invaluable to probate and estate planning practitioners. Yet our members benefited from his expertise for cost of $35.00. Doubtless participants at his national conference of a few weeks ago paid hundreds of dollars for similar guidance.
Our Bar Association is extremely fortunate to have generous members like Hyman Darling who provide top notch continuing legal education at affordable prices right here in our County. It is a true benefit of membership to be able to take advantage of these programs for professional development.
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HAMPDEN COUNTY BAR ASSOCIATION EDUCATION COMMITTEE
The Hampden County Bar Association Education Committee would like to thank the following individuals who took time out of their busy schedules to present an educational training during the past month:
Hyman G. Darling, Esquire of Bacon Wilson. PC
Enrico M. DeMaio, Esquire of Pellegrini, Seeley, Ryan & Blakesley P.C.
Robert A. DiTusa, Esquire of Alekman DiTusa, LLC
Stephen P. Maidman, Esquire
Shaun S. McLean, Esquire of the Massachusetts Appeals Court |
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UPCOMING SEMINARS
December 9, 2011 – Criminal Law Education Series:
Tips from an Expert– 1pm – 2pm
Presenter: Honorable Kent B. Smith of the Massachusetts Appeals Court
Location: Hampden County Hall of Justice, Commissioner’s Room, 50 State Street, Spfld.
January 13, 2012 – Criminal Law Education Series:
Respect & Decorum in the Courtroom– 1pm – 2pm
Location: Hampden County Hall of Justice, Commissioner’s Room, 50 State Street, Spfld.
More information to follow
February 10, 2012 – Criminal Law Education Series:
Cell Phone and Computer Analysis– 1pm – 2pm
Presenter: Michael W. Verronneau, a multi-medial forensic investigator
Location: Hampden County Hall of Justice, Commissioner’s Room, 50 State Street, Spfld.
February 17, 2012 – Criminal Law Education Series:
Where the Constitution meets the Cops, Search & Seizure Overview– 1pm – 2pm
Location: Hampden County Hall of Justice, Commissioner’s Room, 50 State Street, Spfld.
More information to follow
March 9, 2012 – Criminal Law Education Series:
Bail & Probation Issues– 1pm – 2pm
Location: Hampden County Hall of Justice, Commissioner’s Room, 50 State Street, Spfld.
More information to follow
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UPCOMING EVENTS/FOLLOW UP
"Gateway to the Holiday" Evening Social
The Hampden County Bar Association will be having a "Gateway to the Holiday" evening social on Wednesday, December 21, 2011 from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m at the Hofbrauhas, 1105 Main Street, West Springfield, MA. Members and non-members are welcome. Hors d'oeuvres will be served.
Community Shred Day Follow Up
The Hampden County Bar Association, Pro-Shred and Hampden Bank held a Community Shred Day on Friday, December 2, 2011 at Century Plaza, West Springfield. Over 9,000 pounds of paper were collected and shredded! This event was free and open to the public with the donation of a non-perishable item. We are pleased to announce 4 large boxes of food were donated to the Open Pantry. We would like to thank ProShred and Hampden Bank for sponsoring this event and a special thanks to Andy Cohen for allowing us to use Century Plaza.
Annual Meeting - Date Change
The HCBA Annual meeting usually held the third Thursday of June, will be held a week earlier for 2012 on Thursday, June 14, 2012 due to a scheduling conflict. Mark your calendars and save the date!
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NEW LAWYERS SECTION
New Lawyers Section "Holiday Party"
This year, the New Lawyers Section Holiday Party will be held on Saturday, December 17, 2011 at Attorney Jeffrey S. Morneau's home located at 77 Orchard Road, East Longmeadow, MA from 6:30 - 11:30 p.m. This is a great holiday event for the NLS members. Meet other new lawyers and enjoy an evening of food, drink and holiday spirit! Please RSVP to Amy Gilgis at amy@sandslaw.com if you plan on attending. Remember to bring a toy for the Toy Drive!
Annual Toy Drive
The New Lawyers Section is holding its 4th annual Toy Drive. The NLS is asking local attorneys to donate unopened, unwrapped, new toys or making a cash donation (via check made payable to Toys for Tots). Donations can be dropped off at Attorney Christina M. Turgeon's office at 101 State Street, Ste. 401, Springfield, MA; Catugno Court Reporting, 1414 Main Street, One Monarch Place, Springfield, MA or the HCBA office, 50 State Street, Room 137, Springfield, MA. The deadline for donations being dropped off is December 17, 2011. (Donations will also be accepted at the NLS Holiday Party being held on December 17, 2011). Last year the HCBA New Lawyers Section was able to donate approximately 35 toys and with your help we can exceed last year's donations!
New Lawyers Section Lunch
The New Lawyers’ Section next luncheon will be held on Friday, December 16, 2011 at Eighty Jarvis Restaurant, 80 Jarvis Avenue, Holyoke, MA at 1:00 p.m. Please RSVP to Amy Gilgis at amy@sandslaw.com so reservations can be made.
Homeless Lunch-Save the Date
The New Lawyers Section has scheduled a date for the Homeless Luncheon on Saturday, January 21, 2012 at 11:00 a.m., lunch to be served at 12:00 p.m. at the South Congregational Church, 45 Maple Street, Springfield, MA. Anyone interested in volunteering should contact Amy Gilgis at amy@sandslaw.com.
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REAL ESTATE SECTION
The Real Estate Section's next luncheon will be held on Tuesday, December 13, 2011 at Red Rose, Springfield, MA at 12:00 p.m. Guest speaker will be Thomas Moore, Assistant City Solicitor, City of Springfield who will discuss the newly enacted Foreclosure Ordinance. Please RSVP to Nyles Courchesne at 413-734-1002 or nlc@pcalaw.net or Michael Siddall at msiddall@siddalllaw.com.
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PROBATE & FAMILY COURT
Bench Bar Notes from November 17, 2011
1. UPC: The program at Western New England was a success. Attorney Shannon and his committee have several volunteers ready to assist both the public and court staff as the UPC is implemented. Attorney Shannon will be contacting volunteers to arrange their scheduled time. Additionally, Attorney Shannon and Attorney Michelle Feinstein are in the process of organizing a call in program for attorneys with questions on the UPC.
2. Judge Geoffrion asked everyone to be cognizant of the current state of the court, with filings of new matters up from last year and the unprecedented staffing shortages, everyone is doing the best they can, but people need to be sensitive to the current limitations. In fiscal year 2011, there were 15,400 new filing in Hampden Probate and Family Court. The assistant judicial case managers must review each and every one of those files (in addition to the on-going cases they are continuing to work on). One way to assist the Court is for attorneys to let the Court know if they anticipate filing additional litigation on a file. If you are at a pre-trial conference on a Modification and you intend to file a Contempt, please alert the Court and the clerk so that the matters can be handled simultaneously.
3. Judge Geoffrion is going to look into a concern expressed by a member of the bar regarding the filing of Motions at the same time a divorce is filed.
4. A Proposed Protocol for appearances by telephone was distributed. Anyone interested in commenting on the protocol should do so to Attorney Claudine T. Wyner at ctwyner@marienhodge.com no later than December 30, 2011. For a copy of the proposed Telephone Hearing Protocol click here.
The next Probate Court Bench Bar meeting will be held on Thursday, January 19, 2012 at 4:00 p.m. in the Probate & Family Court. The Agenda for the meeting will be sent to all members prior to the meeting; if you have any questions or would like to add a topic to the Agenda, please contact the HCBA at 732-4648 or admin@hcbar.org.
Pre-Trial Conference Program
The Probate Pre-Trial Conference Program is a great pro bono opportunity for attorneys to offer their services in the Probate Court. Sessions are held every other Tuesday with an occasional Thursday. We’d like to thank the following individuals who volunteered for Thursdays in November:
Claudette-Jean Girard, Esq.
We are in need of volunteers for December 27th. Please contact Michelle at the Hampden County legal clinic to volunteer at 413-733-6500 or hampdencountylegalclinic@verizon.net.
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DISTRICT COURT
Bench Bar Notes from November 7, 2011
A meeting of the district court bench-bar was held in Holyoke District Court with Judge Walsh, Judge Vega, Assistant Clerk Baran and approximately 20 lawyers in attendance.
Discussions/suggestion included:
1. Suggestion from Judge Walsh that all attorneys first address the Court by introducing themselves. This clarifies counsel for the recordings of the proceedings.
2. Suggestion that the conference and trial lists be called first, and then counsel can confer duing the call of probation matters. Defaults will be called when Court resumes after the probation list.
3. Suggestion that a motion sign-up list be placed in the Clerk's office so that ex-parte motions can be addressed by the Judge, thus not consuming Court time.
4. Suggestion that the Clerk dedicate an email address for counsel to notify Court prior to session if they are to be late.
The next District Court Bench Bar meeting will take place on Monday, January 9, 2011, at 1:00 pm at Springfield District Court. If there are specific topics of interest, please advise the HCBA Association office. An agenda will be circulated prior to the next meeting.
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JUVENILE COURT
Bench Bar
The next Juvenile Court Bench Bar meeting will be held on Wednesday, January 4, 2011 from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. in the Holyoke Juvenile Court. The Bench Bar meetings are held the first Wednesday of the month and are open to all attorneys who practice in Juvenile Court.
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HOUSING COURT
Bench Bar
The next Western Division Housing Court bench bar meeting will be held Tuesday, December 13, 2011 in Springfield, MA at 3:30 p.m. For more information or to present agenda items contact Jonathan Kane or kane@fierstpucci.com.
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HCBA ARBITRATION/MEDIATION SERVICE
The Hampden County Bar Association Arbitration and Mediation Service maintains a roster of highly qualified lawyers and retired judges for arbitration, mediation, or case evaluations. Our panel members, as an accommodation to the Bar Association, have agreed to serve at substantially reduced rates for arbitrations, mediations or case evaluations. Indeed, many of our panel members independently mediate and arbitrate cases at higher rates. Why not conserve resources by coordinating your arbitrations or mediations through the Hampden County Bar Association? We encourage you to support your bar association by keeping the Arbitration and Mediation Service in mind for alternative dispute resolution. For a complete list of arbitrators/mediators and the type of cases they handle, please visit our website at http://www.hcbar.org/category/5292/arbitration-and-mediation.htm.
For information about the service, or becoming a member of the panel, please contact our office via email at ArbitrationMediation@hcbar.org or by calling (413) 748-7951. This information may also be obtained by visiting our website at www.hcbar.org.
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HCBA FORECLOSURE TASK FORCE
Foreclosure Task Force Lunch
The December lunch of the Hampden County Bar Association Foreclosure Prevention Task Force will be held on Wednesday, December 14, 2011 at 12:00 p.m. at The Student Prince, 8 Fort Street, Springfield, MA. Please RSVP to Steven Weiss at 413-737-1131 or sweiss@ssfpc.com.
The HCBA Foreclosure Task Force would like to ask any attorney who is unable to accept a client and/or individual homeowner facing the prospect of foreclosure to refer that individual to the Hotline (322-7404) that is maintained by the Hampden County Bar Association Foreclosure Task Force and the Alliance of Providers of Legal Services to Individuals Facing Foreclosure and staffed by the Massachusetts Justice Project and the Hampden County Legal Clinic. The Hotline will arrange for the individual to meet with a volunteer attorney and seek to provide legal representation.
The Task Force welcomes additional volunteer attorneys willing to participate in the ongoing efforts to provide legal representation to those individuals facing foreclosure. Interested volunteers should contact Eugene Berman, eberman1@cox.net or (413.531.4482).
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LAWYER REFERRAL & INFORMATION SERVICE
The Hampden County Bar Association's Lawyer Referral & Information Service (LRIS) meets American Bar Association standards for lawyer referral and has a Reduced Rate Panel. Anyone interested in participating in the lawyer referral program can contact our office at 413-732-4648 or via email at lawyerreferral@hcbar.org. Within the last thirty days, attorneys have submitted over $4,234.00 in LRIS referral percentage payments a result of over $28,250.00 in client fees.
If you receive a call from a potential client looking for assistance in an area of law that you do not practice, why not refer them to the Hampden County Bar Association's Lawyer Referral & Information Service? All members of the LRIS are your experienced colleagues. Support your LRIS in providing quality referrals in our community!
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HAMPDEN COUNTY LEGAL CLINIC UPDATE
Lawyer for the Day
The Lawyer for the Day program continues to be a success due to the many volunteers who have offered their services in Western Division Housing Court on Thursdays. This is a great pro bono opportunity for area attorneys. This program benefits landlords and tenants who are income eligible. We’d like to thank the following individuals who volunteered for Thursdays in November:
Michele I. Kunitz, Esq.
We are in need of volunteers for December 22nd. Please contact Michelle at the Hampden County legal clinic to volunteer at 413-733-6500 or hampdencountylegalclinic@verizon.net.
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CHILDREN'S LAW PROJECT
The Hampden County Bar Association received an IOLTA Grant from the Massachusetts Bar Foundation in the amount of $70,000 for funding of the Hampden County Bar Association's Children's Law Project for the 2011-2012 Grant year. We are very grateful to the Massachusetts Bar Foundation for their continued support of this program.
Through this program, children receive legal representation in the Hampden County Family and Probate Court for an array of matters. The program is looking for qualified attorneys to represent these children. Attorneys are paid at a rate of $50.00 per hour with a maximum amount of $1,500.00 paid per case. With recognition that more cases are being settled and not going to trial, we have revamped our application. If you would like information regarding this worthwhile program, please contact the Children's Law Project Director, Noreen Nardi at admin@hcbar.org. For more information about the Massachusetts Bar Foundation and the good work they do, check out their website at www.MassBarFoundation.org.
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COURT HOUSE NEWS
A Court House Holiday party will be held on Tuesday, December 20, 2011 from 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. in the Jury Pool room. Please RSVP by December 12, 2011 to India at 748-7939 or 735-6111 with the dish you would like to bring, or provide a $10.00 donation in lieu of a food. All are welcome to attend.
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OTHER LEGAL COMMUNITY NEWS
Senior Partners for Justice Lunch
Senior Partners for Justice will be hosting a luncheon on Tuesday, December 20, 2011 from 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Guest speaker will be Attorney John Torrone who will discuss the Highlights of the New MA Uniform Probate Code. It will be held at the Glass Room at Elegant Affairs, 1380 Main Street, Springfield, MA. For questions or to RSVP, contact Pat Walsh-Ollari t 413-322-7430 x513 or pwalsh@majp.org.
Mass Bar Educational Training
The Massachusetts Bar Association will be holding an in depth 5-part series on the new Municipal Uniform Probate Code. The sessions will be held at the MBA, 20 West Street, Boston, MA from 12:00 - 4:00 p.m. on October 25th, November 15th, December 13th, January 17th and February 2, 2012. Pre-registration at www.MassBar.org/MUPC.
Hampden County Bar Association members are invited to attend the Massachusetts Bar Association seminars at a discounted rate. For registration, contact the Member Service Center toll free at 1-877-676-6500 or use the website: www.massbar.org.
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PAID ADVERTISEMENTS
Associate Opportunity – Domestic Relations and Family Law
Cooley, Shrair P.C. has a unique opportunity in our Domestic Relations department for a motivated Associate having expertise in a broad range of sophisticated domestic relations matters including complex divorces, negotiating custody arrangements, modifications, property settlements and appeals.
The successful candidate will be results-oriented individual who possesses excellent interaction skills and the commitment to build their practice with the support of an established 65+ year firm. Applicant must be comfortable working in a fast paced deadline driven environment while having meticulous attention to detail, ability to produce under pressure and a comfort with technology along with demonstrated record of achievement and a desire to join a high performance team whose drive and determination sets us apart from the ordinary.
Interested candidates should contact Susan D. Gove, Director of Administration at sdgove@cooleyshrair.com
Appearance Attorneys Wanted
Creditors’ rights law firm seeks attorneys to provide contract appearance services in routine eviction actions in housing and district courts located in western Massachusetts. Candidates must have litigation experience and a reasonable degree of availability for appearance work. Attorney must provide evidence of good standing with the applicable Massachusetts Bar and maintain adequate professional liability insurance. Please forward resume and inquiries to mgreenough@orlansmoran.com
“All paid advertising published in this newsletter in no way constitutes approval or endorsement by the Hampden County Bar Association or by any of its members of the products and/or services advertised.”
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IMPORTANT DATES
December 9, 2011 - Criminal Law Education Series with Judge Smith
December 13, 2011 - Housing Court Bench Bar
December 13, 2011 - Real Estate Section Lunch
December 14, 2011 - Foreclosure Task Force Lunch
December 16, 2011 - New Lawyers Section Lunch
December 17, 2011 - New Lawyers Section Holiday Party
December 20, 2011 - Senior Partners for Justice Lunch
December 20, 2011 - Court House Holiday Party
December 21, 2011 - "Gateway to the Holidays" Evening Social
January 4, 2012 - Juvenile Court Bench Bar
January 9, 2012 - District Court Bench Bar
January 13, 2012 - Criminal Law Education Series
January 19, 2012 - Probate Court Bench Bar
January 21, 2012 - New Lawyers Section Homeless Lunch
February 10, 2012 - Criminal Law Education Series
February 17, 2012 - Criminal Law Education Series
March 9, 2012 - Criminal Law Education Series
March 15, 2012 - Probate Court Bench Bar
May 17, 2012 - HCBA Golf Outing
June 14, 2012 - HCBA Annual Meeting-DATE CHANGE! |
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JUDGES' SCHEDULES
The following is a list of Hampden County Judges' assignments through the end of the month. Please note that these assignments are subject to change without notice.
Hampden County Superior Court
11/28-12/2 Sweeney, Velis, Moriarty, Kinder, Page, Carey, Josephson, Agostini
12/5-12/9 Sweeney, Velis, Moriarty, Kinder, Page, Carey, Josephson, Agostini
12/12-12/23 Sweeney, Velis, Moriarty, Kinder, Page, Carey, Josephson, Agostini
12/26-12/30 Sweeney, Velis,Moriarty, Kinder, Page, Carey, Josephson, Agostini
Springfield District Court
12/1 Beattie (am), Boyle, Gordon, Hadley, Mason, Payne, Poehler (am)
12/2 Beattie (am), Boyle, Gordon, Hadley, Mason, Payne
12/5 Beattie (am), Boyle, Connly (am), Gordon, Hadley, Mason, Mulcahy
12/6 Beattie (am), Boyle, Gordon, Hadley, Hurley (am), Mason, Mulcahy
12/7 Beattie (am), Boyle, Gordon (pm), Hadley, Mason (pm), Mulcahy
12/8 Beattie (am), Boyle, Gordon, Hadley, Mason, Payne, Poehler (am)
12/9 Beattie (am), Boyle, Gordon, Hadley, Mason (am), Payne
12/12 Beattie (am), Boyle, Contant (am), Gordon, Hadley, Mason (pm), Mulcahy (pm)
12/13Beattie (am), Boyle, Gordon, Hadley, Hurley (am), Mason, Vrabel
12/14 Beattie (am), Boyle, Connly, Gordon, Mason, Payne, Vrabel
12/15 Beattie (am), Boyle, Gordon, Hadley, Mason, Payne, Poehler (am)
12/16 Beattie (am), Boyle, Gordon, Mason
12/19 Beattie (am), Boyle, Contant (am), Gordon, Hadley, Mason, Mulcahy
12/20 Beattie (am), Boyle, Gordon, Hadley, Hurley (am) Mason, Mulcahy
12/21 Beattie (am), Boyle, Gordon, Hadley, Koenigs, Mason, Mulcahy
12/22 Beattie (am) , Boyle, Gordon , Koenigs, Mason, Payne, Poehler (am)
12/23 Beattie (am), Boyle, Gordon, Koenigs, Mulcahy, Payne
12/26 No Assignment
12/27 Beattie (am), Gordon, Hadley, Koenigs, Mason
12/28 Beattie (am), Gordon, Hadley, Mason, Payne
12/29 Beattie (am), Gordon, Hadley, Mason, Mazanec, Payne
12/30 Beattie (am), Gordon, Hadley, Mason
Palmer District Court
12/1 Poehler (pm)
12/2 Hurley
12/5 Poehler
12/6 Poehler
12/7 Poehler
12/8 Poehler (pm)
12/9 Poehler
12/12 Poehler
12/13 Poehler
12/14 Poehler
12/15 Poehler (pm)
12/16 Sanabria-Vega
12/19 Poehler
12/20 Poehler
12/21 Poehler
12/22 Non-Region 6 Judge, Poehler (pm)
12/23 No Assignment
12/26 No Assignment
12/27 Poehler
12/28 Poehler
12/29 Poehler
12/30 Poehler
Westfield District Court
12/1 Contant
12/2 Vrabel
12/5 Contant
12/6 Contant
12/7 Contant
12/8 Koenigs
12/9 Contant
12/12 Contant (pm)
12/13 Contant
12/14 Connly
12/15 Contant
12/16 Vrabel
12/19 Contant (pm)
12/20 Contant
12/21 Contant
12/22 Contant
12/23 Contant
12/26 No Assignment
12/27 Vrabel
12/28 Koenigs
12/29 Koenigs
12/30 Koenigs
Chicopee District Court
12/1 Hurley, Walsh
12/2 Mulchahy
12/5 Hurley
12/6 Hurley (pm)
12/7 Hurley
12/8 Hurley
12/9 Vrabel
12/12 Hurley
12/13 Hurley (pm)
12/14 Hurley
12/15 Hurley
12/16 Hurley
12/19 Hurley
12/20 Hurley (pm)
12/21 Hurley
12/22 Hurley
12/23 Hurley
12/26 No Assignment
12/27 Hurley )
12/28 Hurley
12/29 Hurley
12/30 Hurley
Holyoke District Court
12/1 MacLeod, Sanabria-Vega
12/2 MacLeod, Sanabria-Vega
12/5 Sanabria-Vega, Walsh
12/6 Sanabria-Vega, Walsh
12/7 Sanabria-Vega, Walsh (pm)
12/8 Sanabria-Vega, Walsh
12/9 Sanabria-Vega, Walsh
12/12 Connly, Sanabria-Vega
12/13 Mulcahy, Sanabria-Vega
12/14 Mulcahy, Sanabria-Vega
12/15 Mulcahy. Sanabria-Vega
12/16 Goggins
12/19 Koenigs, Sanabria-Vega
12/20 MacLeod, Sanabria-Vega
12/21 MacLeod, Sanabria-Vega
12/22 MacLeod, Sanabria-Vega
12/23 Sanabria-Vega
12/26 No Assignment
12/27 Mulcahy
12/28 MacLeod
12/29 MacLeod
12/30 MacLeod
Hampden County Probate Court
12/1 Geoffrion, Fuller, Hyland, Sacks
12/2 Geoffrion, Fuller, Hyland, Sacks
12/5 Geoffrion, Fuller, Hyland, Sacks
12/6 Geoffrion, Fuller, Hyland, Sacks
12/7 Geoffrion, Fuller, Hyland (pm), Sacks
12/8 Geoffrion, Hyland
12/9 Fuller, Sacks
12/12 Geoffrion, Fuller, Hyland, Sacks
12/13 Geoffrion, Fuller, Hyland, Sacks
12/14 Geoffrion, Fuller, Hyland, Sacks
12/15 Geoffrion, Fuller, Hyland
12/16 Fuller, Hyland, Sacks
12/19 Geoffrion, Fuller, Hyland, Sacks
12/20 Geoffrion, Fuller, Hyland, Sacks
12/21 Geoffrion, Fuller, Hyland, Sacks
12/22 Geoffrion, Fuller, Hyland, Sacks
12/23 Fuller, Hyland, Sacks
12/26 No Assignment
12/27 Geoffrion, Fuller, Sacks
12/28 Geoffrion, Fuller, Sacks
12/29 Geoffrion, Fuller, Sacks
12/30 Geoffrion, Fuller, Sacks
Springfield Juvenile Court
12/1 Swords, Dunbar, Belsky, Phillips
12/2 Swords, Dunbar, Belsky, Phillips
12/5 Swords, Dunbar, Belsky, Phillips
12/6 Swords (am), Dunbar, Belsky, Philips
12/7 Swords, Dnubar, Belsky (pm)
12/8 Swords, Dunbar, Belsky, Phillips
12/9 Swords, Dunbar, Belsky
12/12 Swords, Dunbar, Eaton, Phillips
12/13 Dunbar, Eaton, Phillips
12/14 Swords, Dunbar, Eaton
12/15 Swords, Dunbar, Eaton
12/16 Swords, Dunbar, Eaton
12/19 Swords, Dunbar, Eaton, Phillips
12/20 Dunbar, Eaton, Phillips
12/21 Dunbar, Eaton, Phillips
12/22 Swords, Dunbar, Phillips
12/23 Swords, Dunbar, Eaton
12/26 No Assignment
12/27 Swords, Phillips
12/28 Eaton
12/29 Swords, Dunbar, Phillips
12/30 Swords
Holyoke Juvenile Court
12/1 No Assignment
12/2 Locke
12/5 Locke
12/6 Swords (pm)
12/7 Locke
12/8 No Assignment
12/9 Locke
12/12 Locke
12/13 Collins
12/14 Locke
12/15 No Assignment
12/16 Locke
12/19 Locke
12/20 Collins
12/21 Locke
12/22 No Assignment
12/23 Phillips
12/26 No Assignment
12/27 Collins (pm)
12/28 Swords
12/29 No Assighment
12/30 Phillips
Western Housing Court
12/1 Fields, Crampton-Kamukala
12/2 Fein, Fields in Greenfield
12/5 Fein, Fields
12/6 Fein, Fields
12/7 Fein, Fields
12/8 Fields, Crampton-Kamukala
12/9 Fein, Fields
12/12 Fields, Fein in Northampton
12/13 Fein, Fields
12/14 Fein, Fields in Pittsfield
12/15 Fields, Crampton-Kamukala
12/16 Fields, Fein in Greenfield
12/19 Fein, Fields in Northampton
12/20 Fein, Fields
12/21 Fields, Fein in Pittsfield
12/22 Fields, Crampton-Kamukala
12/23 Fein, Fields in Greenfield
12/26 No Assignment
12/27 Fields
12/28 Fields in Pittsfield
12/29 Fields
12/30 Fields in Greenfield
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