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.

News & Updates

Supreme Judicial Court Notice (posted November 2, 2021)

Chief Justice Paula Carey has announced that she will retire as Chief Justice of the Trial Court in January 2022. Accordingly, the Justices of the Supreme Judicial Court are soliciting nominations and applications from Trial Court judges interested in this challenging leadership position. Learn more.

Supreme Judicial Court Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

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

Access to the John Adams Courthouse 

The John Adams Courthouse, the home of the SJC, is open to members of the public who are not prohibited from entry for the reasons set forth in paragraphs 4 and 5 of the SJC's Fourth Order Regarding Public Access to State Courthouses & Court Facilities. 

All members of the public, even if fully vaccinated, are required to wear masks that cover their noses and mouths at all times while in the courthouse, unless removal of masks is permitted during a judicial proceeding by the presiding justice or justices.