Federal Judges Try Unlawful Maneuvers to Oust Iconic Judge, Hon. Pauline Newman

Chief Judge Kimberly A. Moore of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit claimed that U.S. Circuit Judge Pauline Newman “is unable to discharge all duties of the office by reason of mental or physical disability”. Moore appointed a three-judge special committee—including herself—to investigate the matter. Without citing any legal authority and prior to the conclusion of any investigation, Chief Judge Moore removed Judge Newman from new hearing cases for an indefinite period. She also impeded Judge Newman’s access to court chambers and unilaterally decided that the judicial assistant working for Judge Newman “is no longer an employee of the Newman chambers.”

Chief Judge Moore’s unlawful action to bar Judge Newman from carrying out the duties of her appointed office poses significant constitutional difficulties because it impinges on the Constitution’s guarantee that federal judges hold and exercise the functions of their office “during good behaviour.” Her action also violates due process of law and raises serious concerns about Chief Judge Moore’s ability to conduct this investigation impartially.