Massachusetts Superior Court Judge Shannon Frison is a seasoned jurist with a distinguished record of service both in the courtroom and on the battlefield.
Appointed to the Superior Court in 2013 at age 42, and previously serving on the Boston Municipal Court beginning at just 39, Judge Frison has earned a reputation for legal acumen, firm leadership, and an unwavering commitment to justice.
But beyond her credentials lies a powerful symbol of transformation in the judiciary: Judge Frison is also a tattooed Marine Corps Major—a rare profile in a profession often defined by tradition and uniformity. Her visible tattoos have sparked public interest and admiration, challenging stereotypes about what a judge “should” look like and underscoring a broader shift toward inclusivity and authenticity in the legal field.
Frison began her legal career as an Assistant District Attorney in the Norfolk County District Attorney’s Office before becoming a litigation associate at the former white-collar defense firm Dwyer & Collora. She later launched her own practice, Frison Law Firm, focusing on criminal defense and military justice. Her comprehensive background in both prosecution and defense has given her a nuanced perspective from the bench.
Judge Frison is a Harvard University and Georgetown University Law Center alumna. In addition to her judicial and legal accomplishments, she holds the rank of Major in the United States Marine Corps, having been commissioned in 1994. From 1997 to 2000, she served as a Marine Corps prosecutor at MCAS New River in Jacksonville, North Carolina, after completing The Basic School and Naval Justice School.
Her commitment to public service extends to legal education and reform. Judge Frison has served as a Guberman Teaching Fellow and guest lecturer at Brandeis University on military tribunals and justice. She was also an active member of the Boston Bar Association’s Task Force to Prevent Wrongful Convictions and a participant in Harvard Law School’s Trial Advocacy Workshop. She is a past president of the Massachusetts Black Judges Conference and an advocate for increased mentorship and professional development among early-career attorneys.
While Judge Frison’s appearance may be unconventional by judicial norms, her work speaks volumes. Her tattoos are not a distraction—they are a testament to lived experience, authenticity, and service. As the judiciary continues to evolve, Judge Frison represents a modern vision of judicial leadership that balances professionalism with personal expression.
In a profession where perception often carries significant weight, Judge Shannon Frison is a powerful reminder: credentials, integrity, and leadership are not defined by appearances.
