On Thursday, April 30, 2026, the Flaschner Judicial Institute hosted “The Hon. Gregory C. Flynn Program on Effective Judicial Writing,” an in-person, half-day program co-sponsored with the Massachusetts Judges Conference. Approximately 100 judges from all seven Trial Court departments attended the event, which reached full capacity.
Designed for both new and experienced judges, the agenda focused on practical techniques for strengthening judicial writing, including organizing opinions, drafting clear factual findings, and writing well-supported conclusions that improve the likelihood that decisions will be upheld on appeal.
There were two distinguished panels:
(1) From Trial Record to Appellate Review: Writing Strong Findings – included Supreme Judicial Court Justice Frank M. Gaziano and Appeals Court Justices William J. Meade, Marguerite T. Grant, Rachel E. Hershfang, and Gloria Y. Tan
(2) Appellate Review FAQs: Interlocutory Appeals, Reporting Questions, and Establishing an Adequate Record – featured Supreme Judicial Court Justice Scott L. Kafker and Appeals Court Justices Gregory I. Massing, Joseph M. Ditkoff, and Kathryn E. Hand.
Participants also engaged in smaller discussion sessions focused on issues specific to individual departments. The program was well received and provided judges with practical guidance they can apply immediately in their daily work.