Federal Circuit Judge Pauline Newman has been barred from hearing cases for at least another year following her refusal to cooperate with an investigation into her health. The appeals court’s judges unanimously agreed on Friday to extend the suspension, which began last year.
Newman’s Suspension Extended : Federal Circuit’s Decision
In a brief order without further comment, the 11 judges on the Federal Circuit Judicial Council adopted a July recommendation from a three-judge panel. The order states that Judge Newman, who is 97 years old, will remain prohibited from participating in cases at either the panel or en banc level for another year. The suspension could be renewed if Judge Newman continues to refuse cooperation, or rescinded if she complies.
“Judge Newman shall not be permitted to hear or participate in any cases… for a period of one year,” the Judicial Council wrote. The decision stems from her refusal to undergo medical evaluations, which were part of an investigation into her competency to serve on the bench.
Health Concerns and Investigation
Judge Newman’s suspension was first imposed last September after she declined to consent to medical tests requested by her colleagues. The investigation was prompted by concerns from court staff and fellow judges about her cognitive health. In July, a three-judge special committee concluded that her refusal to comply with the medical tests “reinforced the concerns about cognitive impairment.”
