Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court (SJC)

A chief justice and six associate justices make up the Supreme Judicial Court (SJC). The seven justices hear appeals on a broad range of criminal and civil cases from September to May and issue written opinions that are posted online. The SJC also supervises the judiciary and the bar, makes or approves rules for court operations, and gives advisory opinions, upon request, to the governor and the legislature.

On Monday, September 14, 2020, the Justices of the Supreme Judicial Court announced the death of Supreme Judicial Court Chief Justice Ralph D. Gants. An In Memoriam page honoring the late Chief Justice is on the court's website.

News & Updates

Supreme Judicial Court Posts Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) (updated September 22, 2020)

• The SJC has posted Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Supreme Judicial Court During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Access to the John Adams Courthouse (updated September 22, 2020)

• In light of continuing public health concerns arising from the COVID-19 pandemic, the John Adams Courthouse is currently open only to attorneys, litigants, and other members of the public attending in-person court proceedings; conducting in-person business with a clerk's office; or conducting business at other offices that are open to the public and housed in the courthouse.
• Persons seeking entry will be subject to a screening process to determine if they have or may have been exposed to COVID-19 and are required to wear masks or cloth face coverings that cover their noses and mouths at all times while in the courthouse.  
• Among other restrictions, members of the public may not enter or remain in the courthouse if they fail or refuse to engage in this screening process; refuse to wear a mask or cloth face covering; or are required to quarantine in accordance with the Governor's order regarding travel outside of Massachusetts. The Third Order Regarding Public Access to State Courthouses & Court Facilities contains additional restrictions on entry to the courthouse.