Ken Ferris has been 35 years of legal experience, including cases in probate court.

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Longtime local attorney Ken Ferris has announced his candidacy for Berkshire County register of probate. 

The Register of Probate's office for the Berkshire Probate and Family Court manages administrative functions for cases, often involving significant and life-changing situations.  Ferris wants to ensure that the office is accessible, professional, and efficient, while serving the public with fairness and dignity. 

Ferris became a lawyer decades ago to help people, he said, and feels that he can improve the Register of Probate's office to benefit the public and employees. He kicked off his campaign at the Tavern at the A on Feb. 12. 

"The office runs very well, but there's got to be a way that I can improve this process to help people understand and navigate through the system so that at the end of the day, they get their justice, if you will," he said. 

"They've got to have access, and I think that I have some ideas that I believe will help people get the access they need." 

Ferris is an attorney with Hashim & Spinola and has 35 years of legal experience in Berkshire County.  He also served as the coordinator of the mediation program at the Berkshire County Probate and Family Court for several years.  

It is a little bittersweet, Ferris said, because as the Register of Probate, he would have to step down from law practice. 

"But practicing law, you're only helping that particular person, at that particular time," he explained. "I think, with the registry, I would be able to help a lot more people. That is what inspired me."