WASHINGTON, DC – Upon receiving news of the passing of Judge Patricia Wald, former chief judge of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit and former member of the Constitutional Accountability Center (CAC) Board of Directors, CAC Vice President for Public Engagement Praveen Fernandes released the following statement:

“Judge Wald led an extraordinary life. Her career was marked by “firsts,” including being the first woman to serve on the United States Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit and then the first woman chief judge of that prestigious court. To mention just a few of her awards, she received over 200 honorary degrees and was awarded the American Bar Association Medal, the American Bar Association’s highest honor. The measure of Judge Wald’s greatness, however, transcends her many “firsts” and awards. Her life was marked by an unwavering belief in the Constitution’s text, history, and values, and an unshakable faith in the rule of law. This concern for the rule of law and justice extended beyond our borders, illustrated by her service as a judge on the International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia. She will be deeply missed.”

In addition to Judge Wald’s place in our nation’s legal history, she held a special place in the hearts of the many young lawyers she mentored. CAC’s Appellate Counsel Brian Frazelle stated:

“Judge Wald’s strength, insight, and wit—along with her passionate commitment to justice—were an inspiration to everyone who knew her. Those who had the opportunity to work with her count the experience as among their most fortunate.”