Massachusetts Paralegal Association upcoming events

The Power of Restorative Justice: A Paradigm Shift in the Federal Criminal Legal System Featuring a Former Federal Prosecutor’s Journey from Retribution to Restoration (Monday, May 04, 2026)

Mon, 04 May 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Our upcoming CLE, The Power of Restorative Justice: A Paradigm Shift in the Federal Criminal Legal System, offers a rare inside look at how this shift is already happening in Massachusetts. Hosted by our AI & Ethics Section Chair, Tiffany Pacheco, this program features a compelling presentation from former federal prosecutor James Herbert.

Key Takeaway:

Attendees will walk away with a deeper understanding of how the District of Massachusetts is leading the country in restorative practices. You will learn the mechanics of the RISE program and how to pivot your advocacy from a purely adversarial model to one focused on systemic transformation and long-term healing.

Talking Points:

The Power of Restorative Justice (RJ): Transforming the Federal Legal System

I. Beyond Retribution: The Foundations of Restoration

Defining the Shift: Moving from "What law was broken?" to "Who was harmed and how do we repair it?"
The Three Pillars: Encounter, Repair, and Transformation.
Victim-Centered Justice: Why traditional prosecution often leaves victims behind and how RJ brings them to the center of the process.

II. The Federal Perspective: A Prosecutor’s Journey

Guest Speaker Spotlight: Why a career federal prosecutor chose to pivot toward Restorative Justice.
The "Case File" vs. the "Human Story": How the RJ lens changes the way a prosecutor views defendants, victims, and community impact.
Inside the Room: Real-world examples of transformation through "Peacemaking Circles" in the Massachusetts Federal Court.

III. Restorative Justice in the Massachusetts Courts

The RISE Program (U.S. District Court): How RJ is integrated into pretrial supervision and sentencing considerations.
The 2018 Justice Reform Act: Understanding the state-level statutory support for diversion and restorative practices.
Eligibility and Entry: Which cases are "RJ-ready"? (Voluntary participation, acceptance of responsibility, and prosecutor/victim consent).

IV. The Paralegal’s Role in the RJ Process

Facilitating the Referrals: Identifying cases suitable for the RISE or RJP programs.
Managing the "Firewall": Ethical considerations and confidentiality for legal teams when a client enters a restorative circle.
Documentation and Advocacy: How to translate "restorative success" into sentencing memos and mitigation reports.

V. Discussion / Q&A

Can RJ and the traditional system coexist?
Measuring Success: Recidivism rates vs. human healing.

CLE: Don’t Get Soaked; Understanding Wetland and Waterway Title Traps (Thursday, May 14, 2026)

Thu, 14 May 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Paralegals working in real estate, land use, or title review will benefit from this focused webinar, featuring Partners Gene Guimond and Kim Kroha at Baker, Braverman & Barbadoro, P.C.

Together will break down the statutory framework governing wetlands and waterways and explain how boundaries differ for tidal versus non‑tidal waters—key details that often surface during title examinations.

The session will highlight what paralegals should watch for when preparing files, advising attorneys, or supporting client communications, including critical Purchase & Sale provisions, common title policy exclusions, and the importance of securing Certificates of Compliance for Orders of Conditions.

Gene and Kim will also address Enforcement Orders and other pitfalls that can complicate closings, giving paralegals the tools to spot issues early and keep transactions on track.

Speakers:

Kim Kroha, Esquire | Partner @ Baker, Braverman & Barbadoro, P. C.

Gene Guimond, Esquire | Partner @ Baker, Braverman & Barbadoro, P. C.

MPA Spring Networking Event (Thursday, May 21, 2026)

Thu, 21 May 2026 21:30:00 GMT

Please join us for a spring networking gathering at State Street Provisions. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow members, share what you’re working on, and build new professional relationships. We’re looking forward to an enjoyable evening of conversation, collaboration, and community. Light food will be provided.

We are also seeking event sponsors to help support this program. If your organization is interested in increasing its visibility and engaging with our membership, please email us at office.manager@massparalegal.org