Judge Pauline Newman, 97, has been suspended for a year by the Judicial Council of the Federal Circuit after claims of mental decline were made by colleagues. The suspension, which began in 2023, prevents Newman from hearing new cases until she undergoes court-directed medical examinations. Newman is challenging the order, arguing that she is fit to serve. In her lawsuit filed in May 2023, Newman named Chief United States Circuit Judge Kimberly Moore and other members of the Judicial Council, alleging factual inaccuracies in the order. Colleagues have cited instances of Newman failing to fulfill her duties, causing delays in case processing, and showing signs of cognitive impairment. Moore, along with other judges, lodged a judicial conduct complaint against Newman, initiating an investigation. Newman’s lawyer, Greg Dolin, stated that multiple medical professionals have deemed her mentally sound and capable of carrying out her judicial duties. Newman’s legal team is awaiting a ruling on a motion to reconsider her suspension after the medical examinations. The case is currently being appealed to the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, with Newman’s legal team presenting additional support from retired federal judges and other organizations. The reasons for Newman’s suspension have been disputed, with claims of slow opinion writing and health concerns being refuted by her lawyer. Newman underwent a full neurological assessment and a tomography scan, both of which showed no signs of dementia or cognitive decline.
Photo credit
www.usatoday.com
Colleagues Criticize Judge Pauline Newman’s Fitness for Job as She Continues to Serve at 97
