J. Michael Luttig is a renowned American attorney and former United States Circuit Judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit. Born on November 13, 1954, in Tyler, Texas, Luttig developed a strong interest in law from an early age. He graduated magna cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania in 1976, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science. Luttig then attended the University of Virginia School of Law, earning his Juris Doctor degree in 1981.
Early Career and Judicial Appointments
Luttig began his career in law as a law clerk for Judge Patrick Higginbotham of the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. He then served as a law clerk for Justice Antonin Scalia of the Supreme Court of the United States from 1981 to 1982. In 1982, Luttig joined the Office of the Solicitor General, where he argued several cases before the Supreme Court. In 1989, he was appointed as the Counselor to the Attorney General, a position he held until 1991. Luttig’s judicial philosophy was shaped by his experiences in these roles, emphasizing the importance of originalism and textualism in interpreting the law.
Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals
In 1991, Luttig was nominated by President George H.W. Bush to the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit. He was confirmed by the Senate on May 25, 1991, and served on the court until 2006. During his tenure, Luttig heard a wide range of cases, including those related to civil rights, constitutional law, and criminal law. He was known for his meticulous approach to judicial decision-making and his commitment to upholding the principles of the United States Constitution.
| Notable Cases | Year |
|---|---|
| Ricci v. DeStefano | 2003 |
| Hamdi v. Rumsfeld | 2002 |
| Washington v. Glucksberg | 1997 |
After leaving the Fourth Circuit, Luttig joined the Boeing Company as the Vice President and General Counsel. He has also taught law at several institutions, including the University of Chicago Law School and the University of Virginia School of Law. Luttig's academic writings have focused on topics such as constitutional law, judicial philosophy, and separation of powers.
Legacy and Impact
Luttig’s legacy as a judge and attorney is characterized by his intellectual rigor and his commitment to the principles of the Constitution. His opinions and writings have had a significant impact on the development of constitutional law and judicial philosophy in the United States. Luttig’s influence can be seen in the work of other judges and scholars who have followed in his footsteps, emphasizing the importance of originalism and textualism in interpreting the law.
Conclusion
In conclusion, J. Michael Luttig is a highly respected figure in the American legal community, known for his intellectual rigor, his commitment to the principles of the Constitution, and his influence on the development of constitutional law. His legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of judicial restraint and the rule of law in upholding the principles of the United States Constitution.
What is J. Michael Luttig’s background in law?
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J. Michael Luttig graduated from the University of Pennsylvania and the University of Virginia School of Law. He began his career as a law clerk for Judge Patrick Higginbotham and later served as a law clerk for Justice Antonin Scalia.
What are some notable cases heard by Luttig during his time on the Fourth Circuit?
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Some notable cases heard by Luttig include Ricci v. DeStefano, Hamdi v. Rumsfeld, and Washington v. Glucksberg. These cases demonstrate his commitment to judicial restraint and his willingness to carefully consider the implications of judicial decisions.
What is Luttig’s legacy in the American legal community?
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Luttig’s legacy is characterized by his intellectual rigor and his commitment to the principles of the Constitution. His opinions and writings have had a significant impact on the development of constitutional law and judicial philosophy in the United States.
