Gabrielle Wolohojin sworn in as associate justice of Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court

Gabrielle Wolohojin was sworn in as an associate justice of the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court in a ceremonial event at the John Adams Courthouse in Boston, Governor Maura Healey administered the oath and praised Wolohojin's record of public service and judicial leadership.

The ceremony featured remarks from longtime mentors and colleagues who highlighted the honoree's courtroom skill and temperament. Attorney Joan Lukey said Wolohojin shows "grace under fire," calling empathy and wisdom qualities that make her well suited for the state's highest bench. Attorney Robert Fisk described her as "one of the most highly qualified candidates" for judicial office, citing her investigative work on a major federal probe. Chief Justice Mark Green of the Appeals Court and attorney Peter McDonald also spoke about Wolohojin's meticulous preparation, leadership on court initiatives and collaborative approach in complex litigation.

Why it matters: The appointment fills a seat on the state's highest court and places a widely respected appellate jurist with a long record of written opinions and court leadership into a role that will shape Massachusetts law. Speakers noted her work on appellate procedure, remote-argument policies and judicial mentoring programs that they said will inform her service on the SJC.

Details and context: The ceremony included formal introductions by Associate Justice Amy Blake, remarks from Lieutenant Governor Kimberly Driscoll, a musical performance by members of the Boston Civic Symphony Orchestra, and the administration of the oath. Governor Maura Healey presented Wolohojin as an associate justice and invited her to stand to receive the oath. Wolohojin recited the oath committing to "bear true faith and allegiance to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts" and to "faithfully and impartially discharge and perform the duties incumbent on me as an associate justice of the Supreme Judicial Court." Speakers and guests included current and retired justices, judges from federal and state courts, bar association leaders, and members of the honoree's family.

On the record: Joan Lukey said, "She shows grace under fire," and Robert Fisk said he could state "without any reservation" that Wolohojin ranks among the most highly qualified candidates he had encountered in judicial evaluations. Chief Justice Mark Green pointed to Wolohojin's role in creating written policies and a judge orientation manual for the appeals court, and credited her with leadership on mentoring and remote-argument procedures.

Next steps: After the ceremonial oath the event concluded with instructions for a reception for family and guests. There was no formal vote taken at the ceremony; witnesses at the governor's council previously confirmed the nomination, and speakers at the event referenced the governor's council's near-unanimous approval during the confirmation process.