- Ninth Circuit Judge Johnnie B. Rawlinson is considering taking senior status and is hoping to see a former clerk appointed as her successor if she moves into semi-retirement
- Judge Rawlinson, the first Black woman to serve on the Ninth Circuit, was appointed by former President Bill Clinton more than two decades ago and confirmed by voice vote in the Senate. She told The Nevada Independent, a local news organization, that she could continue her service for years to come but would like to see Berna Rhodes-Ford, a former clerk, as her replacement if she steps down.
- Rhodes-Ford, who is currently general counsel for Nevada State College, said she previously worked at multiple law firms, including Holland & Hart LLP and Littler Mendelson PC. She is also the wife of Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford.
[See here for commentary on judges attempting to pick their successors.]
Law360 also has Dems Focus On Lower Courts After Securing Jackson's Seat
- Right now, there are 112 current or future vacancies in which sitting judges have said they plan to step down.
- Democrats have so far prioritized circuit court confirmations and district courts in states where there are two Democratic senators. The Senate has confirmed 15 appellate court picks so far.
- Sen. Alex Padilla, D-Calif., told Law360 that the urgency to fill lower court seats is the "same as it's been since the beginning of the congressional session." The Senate has confirmed seven trial court picks in his state, and there are seven other nominees who are pending.
- Wilmer Hale's appellate practice considers the diversity of its lawyers one of its key strengths.
- Last year Wilmer had 30 lawyers present arguments in 55 appellate cases in 17 appellate courts.
- Of those 30, 13 were from diverse backgrounds, including nine women, four individuals of Asian/South Asian ancestry and three Black lawyers.
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