The Essex County Bar Association’s (ECBA) leadership team is comprised of four Executive Officers and a Board of Directors, each elected to a two-year term. Collectively, they are responsible for creating and approving the ECBA’s annual budget, facilitating volunteer programs, including lawyer-for-a-day and conciliation programs, and organizing events including the Annual Meeting, Holiday Party and Young Lawyer networking.

Janet E. Dutcher, Esq.

As President, Janet serves as the chief representative and leader of the organization, guiding its vision and priorities.  In this role, she presides over board and membership meetings, helps shape policy, and ensures the association remains true to its mission of supporting the legal profession and advancing access to justice. Widely recognized as the public face of the association, Janet builds strong relationships with judges, attorneys, and community partners while collaborating with staff and committees to oversee programs, continuing legal education and member services. Through strategic leadership in fundraising, advocacy, and outreach, Janet works to strengthen the bar association’s impact within the legal community and ensure its long-term sustainability.

Paul Sahovey, Esq.

As Vice President of the Bar Association, Paul plays a key leadership role in supporting the President and advancing the organization’s mission. In this capacity, Paul helps guide strategic initiatives, collaborates with committees and staff, and works to strengthen programs and member services. The Vice President often assists in presiding over meetings, provides input on policy decisions, and represents the association at events and community functions. With a focus on continuity and succession, Paul ensures that the association’s work remains strong and forward-looking, helping to foster collaboration among attorneys, judges, and partners throughout the legal community. 

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Erin K. Thurston, Esq.

As Secretary of the Bar Association, Erin is responsible for maintaining the official records of the organization and ensuring accuracy and transparency in its governance. In this role, Erin records meeting minutes, manages official correspondence, and helps coordinate communication between the Board, members, and committees. Erin plays a vital part in keeping the association’s work organized and accessible, supporting smooth operations while safeguarding the integrity of its records. With attention to detail and a commitment to the association’s mission, Erin contributes to the effective leadership and accountability of the organization.

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Robert J. Hartigan, Esq.

As Treasurer of the Bar Association, Rob oversees the financial health and stability of the organization. In this role, he manages budgets, tracks revenues and expenses, and provides regular financial reports to the Board. The Treasurer works closely with staff, committees, and auditors to ensure responsible stewardship of funds, compliance with financial policies, and transparency in all fiscal matters. By guiding the association’s financial planning and helping to sustain resources, for programs and member services, Rob plays a crucial role in supporting the long-term success and growth of the organization.

Executive Director

Amy N. Grant

Ex-officio Members

Paul Tucker

Thomas Driscoll

Pamela Casey O’Brien

Board Members

Jessica S. Babine
Martha R. Bagley
David Broderick
Mario C. Capano
Chris Casey
Tyler O. Casey
Mark A. Cashman
Christopher A. Cornetta
Marc Chapdelaine
Hon. (retired) Peter C. DiGangi
Lindsey E. Egan

Timothy P. Houten
John R. Keilty
Mark B. Lavoie
Robert A. Ledoux
David C. McBride
John J. McGlynn
Edward A. McNaught
Marc Moccia
Chris Mountain
Carlotta M. Patten

Henriette B. Perkins
Adrianne Ramos
Joel Rosen
Anne Stevenson
David J. Vasapolli

Past Presidents

DonaldR. Bumiller
Walter A. Costello
Nicholas J. Decoulos
Joseph P. Dever
Carol A.G. DiMento
Thomas Dolan
Jeremiah W. Doyle III
John P. Fitzgerald
Charles W. Goddard

Annette Gonthier-Kiely
Anne Gugino Carrigan
Robert L Holloway, Jr.
Marsha V. Kazarosian

James Lagoulis
Malcolm F. MacLean III
Diane McGlynn
Michael J. Merriam
Wendy R. Olinsky
Hon. Patrick J. Riley
Jeffrey T. Scuteri
John J. Vasapolli