At 97, Federal Judge Pauline Newman Fights to Stay on the Bench Amidst Controversy Over Judicial Retirement

WASHINGTON — At 97, Judge Pauline Newman, the oldest full-time federal judge still serving, stands at the heart of a legal and ethical debate concerning age and capability in the U.S. judiciary. Despite her advanced years, Newman remains actively involved in judicial duties, challenging a recent ruling that prevents her from hearing cases—a dispute that has exposed deeper issues about aging within the federal court system. Newman, who was appointed by President Ronald Reagan in 1984 to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, a court specializing in complex patent cases, has faced … Read more

Judge Pauline Newman Celebrates Historic 40th Anniversary on the Federal Circuit with Surprising Honor

On February 28, 2024, Judge Pauline Newman of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit (CAFC) celebrated her 40th anniversary on the bench. A surprise lunch was organized by her current and former clerks to honor this momentous occasion. The original plan for a small gathering quickly evolved into a larger celebration that left Judge Newman pleasantly surprised and overjoyed. Judge Newman has had a remarkable career that has had a profound impact on the intellectual property (IP) community. She is not only a trailblazer and pioneer but also an inspiration to many. … Read more