Boston, MA --- In recognition of outstanding public service, Chief Justice for Administration and Management Robert A. Mulligan today honored the Trial Court's Employee of the Year, Richard A. McKinnon, and the fourteen recipients of the 2005 Trial Court Employee Excellence Awards in a ceremony at the John Adams Courthouse.

          This year the awards recognize Trial Court employees who consistently demonstrate distinguished public service and the utmost civility to the public and to their fellow employees. Candidates for the awards are nominated by their supervisors and colleagues.

          Mr. McKinnon, who is Operations Supervisor in the Office of the Clerk for Criminal Business in the Boston Municipal Court, is known for his extraordinary professionalism, loyalty, courtesy, and dependability. He began his career with the court system in the Boston Municipal Court in 1996, and was promoted to his present position, which he has held for three years. Mr. McKinnon is recognized for his teamwork and his positive attitude in the workplace.

          Chief Justice Mulligan said, "It is an honor to present these awards to dedicated and hardworking individuals who are recognized as outstanding employees by their supervisors and colleagues. All of the award recipients deserve our deep gratitude and special recognition for their professionalism and the selfless work they perform in service to the courts and to the public."

          Since 1987, the Administrative Office of the Trial Court has honored Trial Court employees with the annual awards for their outstanding job performance and commitment to public service. A thirteen-member committee selected the winners from more than 200 nominations this year. There are approximately 6,800 employees in the Trial Court at more than 100 court locations and offices statewide.