New York’s Court of Appeals is the highest court in the state, created in 1847 to articulate statewide principles of law in the context of deciding particular lawsuits. Focusing on broad issues of law rather than individual disputes, the Court now consists of seven judges—one chief judge and six associate judges—appointed by the governor to terms of fourteen years.

Since its creation, the Court of Appeals has often been at the forefront of shaping American law; its judges have been among the nation’s most influential jurists.

And now, this important reference work finally provides a comprehensive, authoritative guide to one hundred and sixty years of this important legal legacy.

Featuring original biographies of 106 chief and associate judges, this unique resource takes the real measure of the Court’s history. The entries range in length from concise portraits to extended discussions of such leading figures at Benjamin Cardozo and Irving Lehman, from its first term under Chief Judge Freeborn G. Jewitt to the current term under Chief Judge Judith S. Kaye.

Designed for lawyers, judges, scholars, and students of the courts and history, these valuable biographies are filled with essential facts, expert analysis, and illuminating interpretation. Each entry features a full personal and professional biography, and concise coverage of landmark cases, key opinions, and a detailed context for understanding the legacy of each jurist. In addition, the book features biographies of other important Court figures, hundreds of illustrations, full case citations, bibliographies, and listings of judges’ progeny.

This first book of its kind fills a major gap in the literature and will be an essential resource not only for the New York legal community but also for scholars, students, and practitioners of the law around the country.

Foreword by: Judith S. Kaye