The Clerk of Civil Courts holds a pivotal role in our county's legal system, leading a team of employees and overseeing administrative operations for all Civil Courts in Suffolk County. Managing a significant caseload, the Clerk assists the public and supports judges, attorneys, and other legal professionals navigating the court system. This position demands a candidate with deep legal and administrative expertise and a comprehensive understanding of court proceedings. In 2023, with those qualifications in mind, Superior Court Chief Justice Heidi E. Brieger appointed John Powers to the role following the retirement of longtime Clerk Michael Donovan.

 

John Powers is a Boston-based attorney who has dedicated his career to public service, working for years in key positions within the Suffolk County legal system. A graduate of Providence College and Suffolk University Law School, he earned a Juris Doctorate in 1989. His public service journey began at the Suffolk County District Attorney's Office, where he held crucial positions, including Chief of the Major Felony Unit and Deputy Chief Trial Counsel, over two decades.

 

In 2008, John transitioned to the Suffolk County Superior Court Civil Clerk's Office, engaging with judges, attorneys, and litigants on a daily basis. In his role, John worked to help process 800 active yearly cases, assisting legal teams and guiding members of the public through the trial process. Progressing to the position of First Assistant Clerk in 2017, he contributed to the modernization of the office, enhancing efficiency for staff and attorneys and working to streamline access to the public. John also helped to lead the office through the difficulties of the COVID-19 Pandemic, implementing new systems and procedures to ensure the courts were able to remain open and functioning.

 

Beyond his official duties, John has focused for years on mentoring young aspiring attorneys by facilitating internships and collaborating with programs like the Judicial Youth Corp. Many individuals mentored by John pursued legal careers, including a number choosing to follow him into public service.

 

John currently resides in South Boston with his wife, Nancy, and daughters, Jacqueline and Elizabeth. He is running for a full term as Clerk of Civil Court, aiming to leverage his extensive experience to ensure the office continues to operate at its highest capacity.