Interesting factoids about litigation in FY2011

Taken from Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly published February 13, 2012
Multiple Counts

• 456 - Number of jury verdicts in Superior Court civil cases in FY2011, lowest since 2007
• 578 - Number of criminal cases to go to trial in Superior Court in FY 2011, the lowest total since 2007
• 155,968 - Number of cases filed in Probate & Family Court in FY 2011, the lowest total since 2006
• 377,654 - Number of civil cases filed in all courts in FY2011, he lowest total since 2005
• 1,132,002 - Number of all cases filed in FY2011, the lowest total of the millennium

WHAT SHOULD A LAWYER LOOK FOR IN A COURT REPORTER?

1. A reporter who is a member of their state and national associations and abides by the National Court Reporters Association’s Code of Professional Responsibility regarding ethics
2. A reporter who invests in their equipment and the latest technology and attends seminars to keep abreast of  trends and developments in the industry
3. A reporter who continues to obtain certifications such as the CSR (Certified Shorthand Reporter), RPR (Registered Professional Reporter), RMR (Registered Merit Reporter), RDR (Registered Diplomate Reporter), and CRR (Certified Realtime Reporter).  These are hallmarks in the reporting profession and demonstrate their desire to continue to improve their reporting skills
4. A reporter who is always on time.  A good reporter is always early for his assignment.  Clients should never wait for the late arrival of a reporter
5. A reporter who is professionally attired.  The reporter is a professional and should dress accordingly
6. A reporter who is organized, asks the right questions with regard to obtaining information concerning the case, obtains information regarding the attorneys present, who they represent, and what their transcript and litigation support requirements are
7. A reporter who has the skill sets that allow them to do their job quietly and unobtrusively
8. A reporter who is willing to do whatever is necessary to meet a client’s needs; e.g., providing rough drafts and/or expedited delivery or staying late so counsel may finish a deposition
9. A reporter who can treat each case with the utmost confidentiality
10. A reporter who puts the time in, does the research necessary, and produces an excellent and timely transcript each and every time

REBIRTH OF DOWNTOWN CROSSING AT THE OLD FILENE’S SITE

Doris O. Wong is currently serving a three-year term as a director of the Downtown Boston Business Improvement District, also known as BID.  BID is a nonprofit organization funded by property and business owners committed to revitalizing the area designated as Downtown Crossing, which includes the Theater, Ladder, and Financial Districts.  Many cities across the country have utilized BIDs for this purpose with much success, such as Times Square in New York.  Through outreach to businesses and the general public and collaboration with the Boston Police and other city departments, the BID hopes to create a safe and attractive environment for all who live, work, and shop in these areas, leading to less vacancies and more revenue for businesses. 

The BID employs ambassadors who wear bright orange shirts and green jackets and have a visible presence on the streets.  They are charged with maintaining public spaces, assisting visitors and pedestrians, and helping to create a friendly and welcoming environment. 

With Millenium poised to take over construction of a new tower at the old Filene’s space in Downtown Crossing, this area will thrive and prosper once again.