Senior Partners for Justice

In October, 2002, Hon. Edward M. Ginsburg, a retired associate justice of the Massachusetts Probate and Family Court, established an innovative new initiative: Senior Partners for Justice. The idea stemmed from Judge Ginsburg's having observed, during his many years on the bench, the struggles of pro se litigants as they tried to represent themselves in divorce, paternity, child support and custody matters. Their voices have always remained too weak-and their numbers too great, for the court system to handle.

Senior Partners for Justice asks lawyers to put their talents to use in the service of those who otherwise will find no representation in court.

The response has been heartening: By the end of its third year, Senior Partners for Justice had attracted over 200 lawyers who range in age from 30 to 92. Their diversity is remarkable, including both retired and active lawyers, seasoned family law practitioners, specialists from outside family law, and even new bar admittees. For those attorneys whose intellectual curiosity, energy for work, passion for the law and desire to serve does not diminish with retirement, Senior Partners for Justice offers an opportunity to refocus their intellect, wisdom and experience. For practicing lawyers, both new and seasoned alike, Senior Partners for Justice is a unique opportunity to help families and "give back" to the community.

Although some of the Senior Partners for Justice may never have handled family law matters, their skills in negotiation, case management, courtroom advocacy and client representation are eminently transferable to this volunteer effort. Their lawyering talents and professional skills find new relevance, and in this relevance, great personal rewards.

For more information on Senior Partners for Justice and how to join visit them at www.spfj.org