Press Release  Honorable Gordon H. Piper Reappointed Chief Justice of the Land Court by Trial Court Chief Justice Jeffrey A. Locke

BOSTON, MA — Trial Court Chief Justice Jeffrey A. Locke today announced the reappointment of Judge Gordon H. Piper as Chief Justice of the Land Court for a five-year term commencing October 29, 2023, in accordance with G.L. c. 211B, § 5.

“Chief Justice Piper guided the Land Court through the many challenges presented by the COVID pandemic, as the court improved and modernized operations,” said Trial Court Chief Justice Locke. “He embraced technology to permit virtual hearings and even trials. Under his leadership, the court dramatically expanded the use of e-filing, increased access to the court for self-represented litigants, and created a volunteer lawyers program to provide critical information to those at risk of losing title to their property.” 

Chief Justice Piper has served on the Land Court since 2002. He was first appointed to the role of Chief Justice of the Land Court on October 29, 2018 by then Trial Court Chief Justice Paula M. Carey. In 2015, the Massachusetts Judges Conference honored him with an award for judicial excellence. He is a past member of the Board of Trustees of the Flaschner Judicial Institute.

Prior to his appointment to the bench, Chief Justice Piper practiced for 20 years with Goodwin Procter LLP, specializing in real estate and land use matters and real estate litigation. He also served as president of the Massachusetts Conveyancers Association, now the Real Estate Bar Association.

“I am deeply honored to have been appointed to a second term as Chief Justice of the Land Court,” said Chief Justice Piper. “This year marks the 125^th anniversary of the founding of our court. I am proud of the Land Court and its specialized and vital role serving those who trust us to address their real estate litigation and transactional business. I am excited to continue working with the talented and dedicated judges, leadership, and staff of the Land Court as we build upon the many innovative initiatives we have undertaken to improve the delivery of justice in our court.” 

Chief Justice Piper and Trial Court Administrator Thomas G. Ambrosino plan to reappoint Deputy Court Administrator Jill Ziter. Trial Court Administrator Ambrosino said, “Chief Justice Piper and DCA Ziter have demonstrated effective approaches to enhancing the role of the Land Court in facilitating real estate and land use cases across the state. I look forward to our continued collaboration.”

The Land Court Department has statewide jurisdiction with seven authorized judicial positions. The Massachusetts Trial Court includes seven court departments with 385 judges who deliver justice in 94 courthouses across the state.

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