According to a Washington Post report, a government official has announced that Supreme Court Justice David H. Souter is planning to retire from the High Court. A vacancy would give President Obama his first opportunity to nominate a replacement to the court. Although a republican appointee, many have characterized the 69 year old Souter as part of the liberal bloc of the court. Some therefore believe that Obama will likely replace him, in the event Souter actually retires, with a like-minded judge. Obama’s priority, however, will be to hire a woman. There is only one woman presently on the court–Justice Ginsburg.
President Obama may have other opportunities to shape the Supreme Court. Justice John Paul Stevens, 89, is the the longest-tenured justice, but he has given no indication that he is ready to leave. Justice Ginsburg is 76 and was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer this past winter. She, too, has no immediate plans to retire, and has stated that she intends to serve on the court until well into her 80s.
Justice Souter has been a smart, dedicated member of the High Court, who has compassionately and intellectually analyzed many important issues that impact the American way of life. Salvatore Zambri, senior partner at the firm, had the recent pleasure of presenting a program with him to DC school children who entered an essay contest. The essays concerned “Liberty Under the Law: Empowering Youth, Ensuring Democracy.” They were inspiring, as has been the career of Justice Souter.
If you ever have any questions about your legal rights, please contact the law firm of Regan Zambri & Long, PLLC at (202) 463-3030.