Connor M. Barusch

Professional career

• Associate Justice of the Boston Municipal Court since February 2025
• They have stated that diversity on the bench improves decision‐making and that professionalism, courtesy, and respect—especially for marginalized communities—are essential to fair justice

Education

Additional information

• Governor Maura Healey nominated Barusch in December 2024 to fill a vacancy on the Boston Municipal Court, and the Massachusetts Governor’s Council confirmed the appointment, with Barusch being sworn in by February 2025.
• Barusch’s appointment is notable as a milestone for diversity and representation in the state’s judiciary
• Barusch’s appointment is widely seen as a step toward greater inclusivity in the U.S. judicial system.
• Barusch emphasizes that while their identity does not influence legal decisions, it enhances empathy and listening skills, and they advocate for respectful, inclusive courtroom practices for trans and nonbinary clients
• Before joining CPCS, Barusch was a law clerk at the Massachusetts Appeals Court, an associate at Kauffman Crozier LLP (an LGBT family law firm), and co‐founders of the Massachusetts Transgender Legal Advocates free legal clinic.
• Barusch has over 15 years of experience with the Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS), Massachusetts’ public defender system, working as a trial attorney in Boston’s District and Superior Courts.