Lewis A. Kaplan

Lewis A. Kaplan is a prominent American jurist serving as a senior United States district judge on the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York. Appointed by President Bill Clinton in 1994, he has presided over a wide array of high-profile civil and criminal cases, earning a reputation for intellectual rigor and a no-nonsense courtroom demeanor. His notable rulings have spanned complex financial litigation, First Amendment issues, and significant terrorism trials, cementing his influence on American law.

Early life and education

He was born on January 21, 1944, in New York City. He completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Rochester, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree. He then attended Harvard Law School, where he served as an editor for the Harvard Law Review and earned his Juris Doctor degree in 1967. Following graduation, he clerked for Judge Harold Leventhal of the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit.

Legal career

Prior to his judicial appointment, he built a distinguished career in private practice and academia. He was a partner at the prestigious law firm Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison in New York City, specializing in complex civil litigation and white-collar crime defense. He also served as a professor at Harvard Law School, teaching courses on evidence and trial practice. His legal scholarship and courtroom experience established him as an expert in federal rules of evidence and procedure.

Judicial career

He was nominated to the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York by President Bill Clinton on July 19, 1994. He was confirmed by the United States Senate on August 9, 1994, and received his judicial commission shortly thereafter. He assumed senior status on January 21, 2011, but continues to maintain a full docket of significant cases. Throughout his tenure, he has been involved in numerous judicial panel on multidistrict litigation matters and is known for his efficient management of complex litigation.

Notable cases

He has presided over many consequential trials. He oversaw the civil trial against the Swiss bank UBS AG concerning tax evasion, resulting in a landmark settlement. He handled the criminal prosecution of Sulaiman Abu Ghaith, a son-in-law of Osama bin Laden, for conspiracy and providing material support for terrorism. He also presided over the high-profile civil fraud case brought by the United States Department of Justice against the American International Group. More recently, he presided over the defamation trials between E. Jean Carroll and former President Donald Trump, resulting in substantial jury awards. Other significant cases include litigation involving the Holy Land Foundation and disputes over the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act.

Personal life

He maintains a private life outside of his judicial duties. He is married and has children. His professional memberships have included the American Law Institute and the New York City Bar Association. He has also been involved with various legal ethics committees and continues to be a frequent speaker at events hosted by organizations like the Federal Bar Council.