On May 2, a panel of three justices of the Massachusetts Appeals
Court heard oral arguments in six appeals in a special sitting that
was held in Dartmouth at the University of Massachusetts
School of Law.
The event was part of the Appeals Court's continuing outreach to
communities outside of Boston, where the court generally holds its
sittings. Before the start of the session, Chief Justice Phillip
Rapoza, along with Hon. Elspeth Cypher and Hon. Sydney Hanlon, took
the opportunity to commemorate Law Day as they welcomed students
and teachers from the Criminal Justice Program at the Greater New
Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School.
During the morning recess, the justices participated in a question
and answer period with the students. The topics ranged from the
role of the Appeals Court and appellate judges to how interested
students can prepare themselves for a legal career. Also present
was MBA President Denise Squillante, who was invited by Rapoza to
speak to the students about the important role that lawyers play in
a society governed by the rule of law.