PERACHI, PAUL E. (Retired)

Judicial Biography

Born:

July 6, 1939, Pittsfield

Year admitted to bar:

1983

Year appointed/elected:

1995, by Gov. William F. Weld

Pet Peeves

Other than being well prepared, I look for the following attributes in an attorney appearing before me:

“Interest in what he/she is doing; courteous and zealous.”

What displeases me the most is:

“Lack of interest; merely going through the motions; attorneys who don’t know when to say something and when not to say something.”

Background

Education:

Western New England College School of Law, 1982
North Adams State College, 1963, M.Ed., 1970

Military Service:

U.S. Coast Guard.

Professional

Legal Employment History:

Partner, Whalen & Perachi (1993-1995);
Partner, Reder, Whalen & Perachi (1992-1993);
Associate, Reder, Whalen, Sawyer & Reilly (1988-1992);
Attorney (part-time), Law Office of Charles F. Sawyer (1985-1988).

General Character of Law Practice Prior to Judgeship:

“General, with emphasis on criminal, juvenile, care & protection and 210 terminations.”

Civic and Community Activities

Appointive or Elective Positions Held:

Chairman, City of Pittsfield Youth Commission (1991-1995).

Memberships/Affiliations:

Massachusetts Bar Association;
American Bar Association;
Berkshire Bar Association;
Massachusetts Trial Lawyers Association;
Juvenile Bar Association;
National Association of Counsel for Children;
National Association of Secondary School Principals;
Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association;
Massachusetts Teachers Association;
Berkshire County Principals Association (president, 1980-1982);
Sons of Italy;
UNICO;
Citizens Against Child Abuse;
Children’s Advocacy Center;
Knights of Columbus;
Board of Directors, Catholic Youth Center;
Advisory Board, Law Related Education;
Juvenile Justice Advisory Council;
United Way;
Springfield College Parents Association;
North Adams State College Alumni Association;
Board of Trustees, North Adams State College.