U.S. Senate Confirms Pierce Atwood Attorney Joshua D. Dunlap to Serve on U.S. First Circuit Court of Appeals

Pierce Atwood LLP is pleased to announce that firm partner Joshua D. Dunlap has been confirmed by the U.S. Senate to serve as a Circuit Judge on the United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit.

Dunlap’s appointment is a testament to his legal excellence, deep commitment to justice, and the professional respect he has earned over the course of his career.  Dunlap has demonstrated exceptional skill as a litigator, appellate advocate, and thought leader across a wide range of complex legal matters, including constitutional issues and claims.

An integral member of Pierce Atwood’s Litigation Practice Group, Dunlap served as co-chair of the firm’s Appellate & Amici team, arguing significant cases before the First Circuit and the Maine Supreme Judicial Court, and establishing himself as an outstanding appellate advocate.

Dunlap is a Maine native, raised in Vassalboro, and received his J.D. summa cum laude from Notre Dame Law School in 2008, graduating first in his class. He clerked for Hon. Paul J. Kelly, Jr. of the United States Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit. In 2009, Dunlap joined Pierce Atwood as an associate and was named a firm partner in 2017. He recently served as Chair of the Advisory Committee on the Maine Rules of Appellate Procedure, and was State Chair of the American Bar Association Council of Appellate Lawyers.

“We are proud of Josh and thrilled to see such a talented lawyer and fine person receive this honor and opportunity,” said Pierce Atwood Managing Partner David E. Barry. “Josh’s intellect, integrity, and empathy will make a deep and lasting impact on the judiciary, the broader legal community, and the individuals and businesses whose legal matters bring them to the First Circuit. While we will miss Josh, we’re proud to have built a strong and deep roster of talented lawyers who will continue our tradition of assisting our clients in navigating legal challenges and opportunities and achieving the best possible outcomes. Josh played a key role in these efforts, and we have benefitted from his extraordinary ability and commitment.”