It is with deep appreciation and respect that we announce the retirement of Judge White from the federal bench, effective December 31, 2026, concluding a distinguished career of public service, legal advocacy, and judicial leadership.
Born in 1945 in Brooklyn, New York, Judge White earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Queens College of the City University of New York in 1967 and a Juris Doctor from the State University of New York at Buffalo in 1970.
Judge White began a lifelong commitment to public service as an attorney in the Criminal Division of the U.S. Department of Justice from 1970 to 1971. He then served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland from 1971 through 1977, returning to the Justice Department’s Criminal Division from 1977 to 1978. In 1978, Judge White entered private practice in San Francisco, California, where he built an accomplished legal career over the next 24 years.
On July 25, 2002, President George W. Bush nominated Judge White for federal judicial service. The United States Senate confirmed his nomination on November 14, 2002, and he received his commission the following day, November 15, 2002.
Throughout his tenure on the federal bench, Judge White has served with integrity, fairness, diligence, and an unwavering commitment to the rule of law. His career reflects the highest ideals of the legal profession: careful attention to the facts, respect for every person appearing before the court, and dedication to the impartial administration of justice.
“Judge White has been a consummate judge mastering the facts and the law in each and every case over which he presided. He worked hard to protect the rights of all and was not deterred by those who may have opposed from a position of power. Nothing impeded his objective of administering justice according to his oath of office. Moreover, he was generous with his time and mentoring of young lawyers and new judges. He will be sorely missed.” —Chief Judge Gonzalez Rogers
The court, its staff, members of the bar, and the many litigants whose matters came before Judge White are grateful for his many years of exemplary service. We extend our warmest congratulations and best wishes to Judge White as he begins this well-earned next chapter.