PROVIDENCE, RI – U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse today outlined the process for ensuring there are highly-qualified applicants to serve as a judge on the U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island.
Qualified candidates must have stellar legal credentials and a minimum of 12 years of legal experience. All applicants should send a cover letter and resume to Senator Reed’s office (1000 Chapel View Boulevard, Suite 290, Cranston, RI 02920) by March 20, 2015. The goal is to identify fair-minded, well qualified, and experienced candidates for this important federal judgeship who will serve the people of Rhode Island with professionalism, integrity, and distinction.
The U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island is the state’s federal trial court and has jurisdiction to hear nearly all categories of federal cases, including both civil and criminal matters.
The seat on the bench is opening up because Judge Mary M. Lisi recently announced that she intends to retire from regular active service this fall and will assume senior status. At that time, Judge Lisi will continue to serve the Court and render substantial judicial service as Senior United States District Judge. However, since the Court is authorized three active district judges, Judge Lisi’s decision to take senior status will create a vacancy on the Court. In addition to Judge Lisi, the U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island is currently comprised of Chief Judge William E. Smith; Judge John J. McConnell, Jr.; and Senior Judge Ronald R. Lagueux.
“We salute Judge Lisi for her exemplary service to the people of Rhode Island. Judge Lisi is highly respected for her judicial character and professionalism. We are grateful she will continue to serve as a senior judge and remain a valuable part of the U.S. District Court,” said Reed and Whitehouse in a joint statement.
Judge Lisi will vacate her current position and assume senior status on October 1, 2015.
-end-
