Chief Judge of the New York Court of Appeals

Served as the highest judicial officer in New York State, leading the state's judiciary and overseeing its administration from 2009 to 2015. He was appointed by Governor David Paterson.

Champion of Access to Justice

Spearheaded numerous groundbreaking initiatives to expand legal services for low-income New Yorkers, including the establishment of the Permanent Commission on Access to Justice and implementing a 50-hour pro bono service requirement for bar admission in New York.

Judicial System Reformer

Implemented significant reforms to improve the efficiency, transparency, and fairness of the New York State court system, including efforts to address case backlogs and improve court technology.

Advocate for Criminal Justice Reform

Championed reforms aimed at reducing wrongful convictions, improving indigent defense services, and promoting alternatives to incarceration. He established the Task Force on Wrongful Convictions.

Presiding Justice, Appellate Division, First Department

Prior to becoming Chief Judge, he served as the Presiding Justice of the Appellate Division, First Department, one of the busiest appellate courts in the United States, from 2007 to 2009.

Chief Administrative Judge of New York State

Served as Chief Administrative Judge from 1996 to 2007, managing the day-to-day operations of one of the largest and busiest court systems in the world.

University of Wisconsin-Madison - Year 1970