President George W. Bush has appointed White & Case litigation partner Richard J. Holwell as Judge of the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York.
President Bush first nominated Holwell in August 2002, and the U.S. Senate confirmed his nomination late last week. The President signed Holwell’s judicial commission yesterday afternoon.
“This is an exciting opportunity for Rick Holwell to serve the law in a new and important way,” said Managing Partner Duane D. Wall. “It is a proud moment for all of us at White & Case. We congratulate Rick and his family and extend to him our best wishes.”
Holwell joined global law firm White & Case in 1971. His practice concentrated in the trial of complex commercial litigation involving securities, antitrust, bankruptcy and financial-market matters. He was also involved in many civil and criminal investigations undertaken by the Securities and Exchange Commission, Justice Department and Federal Trade Commission. In his active appellate practice, Holwell argued a number of significant appeals, including those that resulted in a decision that established new precedent regarding the extraterritorial application of U.S. securities laws and antitrust standing under the Clayton Act.
At White & Case, he served as Executive Partner of the Firm’s Dispute Resolution practice, and as a member of the Management Board. He also was a tireless advocate of pro bono service, working to further pro bono activities throughout the Firm.
“My time at White & Case has been extremely positive and productive, providing me with invaluable experience which I know I will draw on while on the bench,” said Holwell. “I am honored to serve as judge for such a highly prolific and respected court as the Southern District of New York.”
Holwell, 56, is a graduate of Villanova University, Columbia University School of Law, cum laude, and Cambridge University. Holwell is expected to be sworn in and assume his post sometime in October.
