The Social Law Library periodically features profiles of its members. Our members come from all areas of the state, practice in a variety of legal settings and in all areas of law. If you are interested in participating in the member profile contact Mike Saporito.

This month we are featuring Thomas R. Murphy of Salem, Massachusetts, Social Law member since 2007.

Patron Profile Featured Member Questions

How long have you been practicing law?

Consistently since 1985.

What city do you practice in?

My office is in Salem but I practice throughout Essex, Middlesex, and Suffolk Counties. I have also handled many cases in various federal courts, both trial and appellate.

What are your practice areas?

Civil trial practice, most of which is personal injury-related. I also do a good deal of appellate work and now chair the Amicus Committee of the Massachusetts Academy of Trial Attorneys for which I have written many and edited many more briefs, as well as for my own clients. I am also experienced in the field of aviation defense litigation.

What do you love about your work?

Many things: straightening out other people's problems, seeing "justice" done for someone, and inventing a creative yet accurate way to describe a series of events.

What do you find the most challenging about your work?

Tactfully and diplomatically explaining to people - be they clients, opponents, or judges - why others see things differently than they see those same things.

How does the Social Law Library help you in your practice of the law?

It's a great place to work and to concentrate, uninterrupted, on a given task; it's a lawyer's laboratory. It also has a tremendous amount of resources with knowledgeable and friendly staff who are extremely helpful to the patrons.

Do you have a website/URL?

Yes: TRMLaw.net.

How can people reach you?

TRMurphy@trmlaw.net or 978-740-5575.