Leland H. Himmel

Leland H. Himmel was an American lawyer, military officer, and jurist who served as a justice of the New York Supreme Court. His career spanned distinguished service in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II and a lengthy tenure on the bench in New York's judicial system. He is noted for his contributions to the Appellate Division and his involvement in significant legal and civic organizations within New York City.

Early life and education

Leland H. Himmel was born in 1914. He pursued his higher education at New York University, where he earned his undergraduate degree. He continued his studies at the New York University School of Law, obtaining his Juris Doctor and laying the foundation for his future legal career. During his formative years, he was influenced by the legal community in Manhattan and became a member of the New York State Bar Association.

Military service

With the outbreak of World War II, Himmel volunteered for service and was commissioned as an officer in the United States Army Air Forces. He served with distinction in the European Theater, participating in critical aerial campaigns. His service involved coordination with units like the Eighth Air Force and operations supporting the Allied advance. Following the war, he remained active in veteran affairs through organizations such as the American Legion.

Legal and judicial career

After the war, Himmel established a successful private practice in New York City, focusing on civil law and litigation. His legal acumen led to his election to the New York Supreme Court, the state's trial court of general jurisdiction. He served in the First Judicial District, which encompasses Manhattan and the Bronx. In 1972, he was designated by Governor Nelson Rockefeller to serve as an Associate Justice of the Appellate Division, First Department, a premier intermediate appellate court. During his tenure, he heard appeals across a wide spectrum of New York law, including cases involving contract law, torts, and administrative law. He was also involved with the New York County Lawyers Association and the Federal Bar Council.

Later life and death

Following his retirement from the bench, Himmel remained engaged in the legal community, serving on various bar association committees and participating in judicial conferences. He was a resident of New York City and later Westchester County. Leland H. Himmel died in 2003. His legacy is reflected in his contributions to the judiciary of New York and his record of public service spanning the military of the United States and the courts of New York.

Category:1914 births Category:2003 deaths Category:American judges Category:New York Supreme Court justices Category:New York University alumni Category:United States Army Air Forces officers