Sentencing: From Fundamentals to Complex Cases (In-Person Program)

This full-day program will offer judges a comprehensive opportunity to strengthen their understanding of sentencing law and practice, from fundamental principles to the more complex issues that arise in sentencing decisions. The agenda will cover sentencing guidelines, probation’s role, sentencing alternatives, parole, and post-sentencing supervision, with a focus on the range of options and resources available to courts, including specialty and recovery courts, diversion programs, and Community Justice Support Centers.

Through presentations and departmental breakout discussions led by experienced faculty, participants will examine sentencing best practices, common pitfalls, and practical considerations for making appropriate sentencing decisions. The program will provide judges with tools and perspectives to support thoughtful, informed, and effective sentencing decisions across the courts.

Presenters & Panelists:
In alphabetical order

Charles W. Anderson, Jr., Deputy General Counsel, Legal Division, Department of Correction
Hon. Nicholas D. Brandt, Associate Justice, Boston Municipal Court
Hon. Michael D. Brennan, Associate Justice, District Court
Hon. Michael A. Cahillane, Associate Justice, Superior Court
Ron Corbett, Ed.D., School of Criminology & Justice Studies, UMass Lowell
Professor Shira M. Diner, Boston University School of Law
Hon. Elizabeth A. Dunigan, Associate Justice, Superior Court
Hon. Sarah W. Ellis, Associate Justice, Superior Court
Hon. Carol-Ann T. Fraser, Associate Justice, District Court
Lee Gartenberg, Director of Inmate Legal Services, Middlesex Sheriff’s Office (Ret.)
Scott Goodoff, Probation Officer, Essex Juvenile Probation
Renee Lamothe, Chief Probation Officer, Lawrence District Court
Vincent L. Lorenti, Executive Director, Massachusetts Probation Service, Office of Community Corrections
Mark Mamet, Chief Probation Officer, Middlesex Superior Court
Hon. Susan V. Oker, Associate Justice, Juvenile Court
Hon. Gloria Y. Tan, Associate Justice, Appeals Court
Hon. Joshua Wall, Associate Justice, Superior Court

Additional Faculty TBD