By Amidst the ongoing discussion surrounding the age of President Joe Biden, who is being questioned about his ability to run for a second term at 80 years old, another notable figure emerges – a 96-year-old federal appeals court judge fighting to retain her job.
Pauline Newman, an esteemed judge based in Washington, D.C., recently faced suspension from her position, following an order from the Judicial Council of the Federal Circuit.
The order commended Newman for her exceptional service spanning nearly four decades, acknowledging her as a “highly valued and respected colleague.” It specifically highlighted her significant contributions in relation to the U.S. patent system. Nevertheless, concerns were raised regarding “evidence of memory loss, confusion, and lack of comprehension” in her recent work.
Regrettably, mounting evidence earlier this year cast doubt on Judge Newman’s ability to fulfill her duties effectively, as stated in the order.
Despite multiple requests to address these concerns, Newman, appointed to the position by President Ronald Reagan in 1984, has chosen not to engage in discussion, according to the order. The order also mentioned that the judge’s workload had been reduced due to her extensive delays in resolving cases and struggles to complete opinions promptly.
In response to allegations, ABC News reported that Newman has expressed a desire to resolve the matter through cooperation. Her attorney, Greg Dolin, plans to challenge the issue by filing a petition for review with the Committee on Judicial Conduct and Disability.
While we reached out to Dolin for comment, a response has not yet been received.
It is worth noting that Newman is not the oldest federal judge on record. This distinction belongs to Wesley E. Brown, who presided until a month before his passing in 2012 at the remarkable age of 104.
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