BERLIN ATTORNEY PETER H. Bornstein was confirmed as special justice of Berlin District Court and justice of Gorham District Court by the Executive Council on Feb. 6. Both judgeships are part-time positions.

Bornstein, 47, is a partner in the Berlin law firm Bergeron, Hanson & Bornstein, where he has practiced for the past 21 years. A graduate of Boston University, Bornstein earned his law degree from William & Mary College in 1980 and spent the following year clerking for then NH Supreme Court Chief Justice William A. Grimes. In 1981, he joined the law firm Bergeron & Hanson, the predecessor to his current firm. His is a general practice in which he does a lot of civil litigation, probate, real estate, municipal and banking work.

Bornstein said he is looking forward to the opportunity to "make a meaningful contribution to the NH justice system and these two communities" as a judge in Berlin/Gorham. He said that he also welcomes the diversity of being a judge.

The biggest challenge Bornstein sees in serving as a judge is dealing with juvenile cases, specifically delinquency, CHINS and abuse and neglect cases. "A lot of crucial decisions are made in this area with a direct impact on people and families," he said.

Bornstein doesn't think the budget crisis facing the state's courts will present any unique challenges to him as a new judge. The Berlin and Gorham District Courts are sorely lacking, with antiquated facilities and inadequate security, as in many other district courts across the state, he said. "As in a lot of areas, the district courts are at a disadvantage. (The budget situation) will present the same challenges to me as to other district court judges," he said.

Bornstein has been married to his wife, Linda, for 25 years. The couple has two grown children.

The swearing-in ceremony for Bornstein will take place at the State House at a date as yet to be determined.

In related news, Gov. Jeanne Shaheen has nominated Daniel M. Cappiello, an attorney with the Dover law firm Shaheen & Gordon, for appointment as special justice of Rochester District Court. A hearing on his nomination was scheduled for Feb. 20. See future issues of Bar News for updates.

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