The Massachusetts Bar Association is urging its members and the public to ask their legislators to vote to override Gov. Deval Patrick’s $11.87 million in cuts from the 2008 budgets for state trial and appeals courts.
The cuts are part of Patrick’s line item veto.
“As a community, we are all affected by the fair administration of justice. Gov. Patrick’s veto will result in the layoffs of hundreds of court employees as well as the elimination of critical programs and services,” association president Mark D. Mason said.
According to the association, court reporters, security officers, interpreters and legal guardians are among the employees who could be let go if funding is not restored to the budget Patrick signed July 12.
The MBA is concerned fewer employees will mean an increase in case backlog, a reduction of court sessions and a greater risk to courthouse safety.
