Ansell.Law is proud to share that Lawrence H. Shapiro, a respected attorney and longtime member of our Firm, has been appointed to serve as a Judge of the New Jersey Superior Court. Shapiro was nominated by New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy and approved by the New Jersey Senate on January 12, 2026. He was sworn in on February 2, 2026.
Throughout his thirty-year practice at Ansell.Law, Shapiro focused on commercial litigation, eminent domain, property disputes, municipal law, and employment law. Clients were drawn to his calm demeanor, clear communication, and ability to identify the most cost-efficient litigation strategy to help them achieve their goals. He built a reputation for thoughtful advocacy, sound judgment, and a steadfast commitment to fairness, which will serve New Jersey’s citizens well in this new role.
“We are tremendously proud of Larry and delighted to congratulate him on this well-earned appointment to the New Jersey Superior Court,” said President and Managing Shareholder Michael V. Benedetto. “Larry and I started as law clerks with the Firm while we were still in law school, so it has been terrific for all of us to watch his journey. From early in his career, he always had a passion to go to the bench and his approach to the practice of law was consistent with that desire. Throughout his career, Larry exemplified the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and service to clients and the community. While we will miss his presence and leadership at our Firm, we are extremely confident that these qualities will continue to impact the judiciary and the people of New Jersey positively. This appointment is a testament to Larry’s talent, dedication, and unwavering commitment to justice, and we look forward to seeing the meaningful contributions he will make from the bench.”
Shapiro’s dedication to the legal community is evident through his service on the Unauthorized Practice of Law, Membership, and Chancery Practice Committees of the Monmouth Bar Association. He has also served as an adjunct professor teaching business law at Monmouth University and is a member of the university’s business council.
A lifelong resident of West Long Branch, Shapiro has been involved in coaching youth sports, is a past president of the Monmouth County Volunteer Center, and is a former board member of Family and Children’s Services of Monmouth County and Monmouth Park Charities. He has also served on the executive board and as president of his synagogue.
This appointment reflects not only Shapiro’s strong legal experience but also his unwavering commitment to public service. We are confident he will bring the same level of diligence, respect, and balance to the bench that he has brought to every stage of his career. A full-circle moment for Shapiro, he served as a law clerk to the Honorable Ira E. Kreizman, J.S.C., retired, immediately following graduation from law school.
Please join us in congratulating Judge Shapiro as he begins this exciting and important chapter of service to our state and its judicial system.