The Governor’s Council on Wednesday narrowly approved the appointment of attorney Carol Shaw of Northampton to a Massachusetts Juvenile Court judgeship.
Shaw, who has worked as an assistant clerk magistrate for the Hampden County Juvenile Court since 2012, was approved on a 4-3 vote. In favor were councilors Michael J. Albano, Eileen R. Duff, Terrence W. Kennedy and Jennie L. Caissie. Opposed were Robert L. Jubinville, Marilyn M. Petitto Devaney and Christopher A. Iannella. Councilor Joseph C. Ferreira was absent.
Albano said Shaw will soon be sworn in as a juvenile court judge. He said her experience working for the Department of Children and Families and her four years spent as assistant clerk magistrate in Springfield more than qualify her for the job, adding there were “no red flags that came up” and no discussion before the council voted on Shaw.
Albano offered no explanation for why three councilors voted against her appointment.
“I was just pleased Carol Shaw was confirmed and will begin her duties very shortly,” Albano said. “This is a very challenging position in our judicial system and she is well-suited.”
Shaw for 13 years was assistant regional counsel in Berkshire County for the Department of Children and Families.
Amanda Drane can be contacted at adrane@gazettenet.com.