Commonwealth Clerk – Boston, MA

Clerk of the Supreme Judicial Court for the Commonwealth

The Clerk for the Commonwealth is a high-level judicial office located within the historic John Adams Courthouse in Boston. Serving the Supreme Judicial Court (SJC), this office is responsible for the docket and calendar of the Full Court. It manages the caseload for the Commonwealth’s highest appellate court, handling matters such as first-degree murder appeals, questions of law certified by federal courts, and bar admissions.

Functions and Duties

• Full Court Docket: Manages all filings, briefs, and motions for cases heard by the full bench of the SJC.
• Bar Admission: Oversees the admission of attorneys to the Massachusetts bar and maintains the roll of attorneys.
• Advisory Opinions: Processes requests for advisory opinions from the Governor or Legislature.
• Liaison Services: Acts as the primary communication point between the Court and legal counsel or self-represented litigants.

The John Adams Courthouse

The office is situated in the John Adams Courthouse, a landmark building at Pemberton Square. Visitors entering the courthouse are subject to strict security protocols. The environment is formal, and professional attire is expected. The Clerk’s office is essential for the administration of justice at the state’s highest level, ensuring that appellate proceedings move efficiently and transparently.

Historical Significance

The distinction of the Clerk for the Commonwealth was established in 1859 to separate the duties of the full appellate court from the county-level single justice sessions. It continues to be a pivotal institution in Massachusetts legal history.