By Laurie O’Neill — [email protected]
Mary “Polly” Phillips, a Concord attorney with more than 20 years of experience in criminal law, has been confirmed for a seat on the District Court bench.
Gov. Maura Healey nominated Phillips to the District Court last fall, noting Phillips’ “deep understanding of the law” and saying she had dedicated her career “to justice.”
The Governor’s Council, which provides advice and consent on gubernatorial appointments, unanimously voted on December 4 to approve Phillips’ nomination.
“I am truly humbled and grateful to Gov. Healey and Lt. Gov. Driscoll for their nomination and confidence in me,” Phillips says. “I look forward to serving the Commonwealth in this important role.”
The District Court hears a wide range of criminal, civil, housing, juvenile, mental health, and other types of cases.
Phillips, a lifelong Concordian, earned a B.A. from Clark University and a J.D. from the University of New Hampshire Pierce School of Law. She practiced for eight years as a prosecutor, beginning her career at the Middlesex County District Attorney’s office, where she handled a wide range of felony and misdemeanor cases.
She later transitioned to the Massachusetts Office of the Attorney General and was assigned to the Special Investigations and Narcotics Division in the Criminal Bureau.
Phillips founded her own firm in 2005, focusing on criminal defense and representing clients in both District and Superior Courts.
During her pre-confirmation hearing, Phillips commented on the impact her late mother, documentary filmmaker Jenny Phillips, had on her career choice.
“I would absolutely not be sitting here before this council if it had not been for her influence on me, her lifelong passion for social justice, and her commitment to helping others,” Phillips said. “My mother would say when you care for others, you help yourself. She believed it was our responsibility to be kind to everyone in need.”
