2022 Edwin F. Jaeckle Award: Hon. Paul L. Friedman '68

Segment Synopsis: The event, hosted by the University at Buffalo School of Law, opened with Ilene Fleischmann, Vice Dean for Alumni, introducing Robert P. Fine as the Master of Ceremonies. Fine is a 1968 UB Law graduate, a founding partner at Hurwitz Fine PC, and a prominent figure in both law and the UB community. He introduced the honoree, Judge Paul Friedman, a native of Buffalo and a UB Law alumnus, noting his significant contributions to the legal profession and justice. The event also paid tribute to Buffalo victims of a recent tragedy, highlighting Buffalo's compassionate response.

Fine acknowledged several distinguished guests, including prominent judges, UB faculty, and alumni. The program featured remarks from Dr. Satish Tripathi, President of UB, who emphasized the university's commitment to social justice, mentioning the President’s Advisory Council on Race. Tripathi honored Judge Friedman for his lifelong dedication to social justice, reflecting UB's mission of equity and community service. The ceremony celebrated Friedman's career and the law school's tradition of promoting justice and public service.

Keywords: UB Law School general; Career / Professional Experience

Subjects: CAREER: LEGAL; LAW

Segment Synopsis: Dean Aviva Abramovsky, highlights the university's commitment to justice and community service. Abramovsky, the first female dean of the law school, emphasized the importance of fostering diversity and inclusivity, sharing examples of initiatives like the pro bono program, law clinics, and efforts to increase faculty diversity. The Dean talks about Friedman's contributions to students and the Alumni Association, significant cases including the John Hinkley case, and the Washington Post editorial based on Friedman's speech on challenges to the rule of law the independence of the Judiciary and the Constitution by the 45th president of the United States Judge Paul Friedman is honored with the Edwin F. Jaeckle Award, recognizing his outstanding contributions to justice, mentorship, and his lifelong commitment to the rule of law. Speakers praised Friedman's exemplary career, his dedication to fairness, and his impactful work as a jurist.

Keywords: Alumni Association; Contributions; Judiciary; Mentors; Significant Cases; Career / Professional Experience

Subjects: LAW; PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE; CAREER: LEGAL

Segment Synopsis: Chief Judge Beryl Howell of the District Court of the District of Columbia was introduced and honored for her exemplary leadership, especially during challenging times like the pandemic and the January 6th events. In her speech, Judge Howell lauded Judge Paul Friedman, celebrating his extensive 28-year tenure on the bench and his significant contributions to the legal field. She highlighted Friedman's dedication to justice, his prolific output of over 2,240 memorandum opinions, and his influential role in landmark cases such as the Pigford v. Glickman civil rights lawsuit and the high-profile John Hinckley case. Judge Howell emphasized Friedman's commitment to fairness, mentorship, and his efforts to improve the judicial system, including his work on reducing civil justice delays and advocating for diversity in the federal courts. She commended his ability to balance professionalism with approachability, making a lasting impact on both the legal community and the broader society. The ceremony underscored Judge Friedman’s legacy of integrity, excellence, and dedication to upholding the rule of law, earning him the highest honor from the UB Law Alumni Association.

Keywords: Accomplishments; Contributions; Mentors; Significant Cases

Subjects: LAW; PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE; CAREER: LEGAL

Segment Synopsis: Roberto Cooper Ramo, a partner at the law firm Modrall Sperling in Albuquerque, New Mexico, highlighted Judge Paul Friedman's distinguished career in her video remarks. Ramo, the first woman to serve as president of the American Bar Association (ABA), praised Friedman's integrity, legal acumen, and his ongoing contributions to the American Law Institute (ALI). She emphasized his leadership and ability to find consensus on complex legal issues, such as revisions to the Model Penal Code and compliance law. Ramo noted Friedman's significant influence in shaping legal frameworks and his unwavering commitment to justice and the legal profession.

Carolyn Lamb, a former colleague of Judge Friedman at the law firm White & Case, reflected on Friedman's time as a litigator. Lamb commended his exceptional legal skills, warmth, and ability to mentor others. She recounted his involvement in notable cases, including his victory in EEOC v. Aramco before the U.S. Supreme Court, which led Congress to amend the law. Lamb also highlighted Friedman's leadership in the firm’s Washington, D.C. office, where he cultivated a culture of professionalism and respect. His contributions left a lasting legacy at White & Case and throughout the legal community.

Keywords: Accomplishments; Practice; Significant Cases; Law Firms

Subjects: LAW; PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE; CAREER: LEGAL

Segment Synopsis: Jamie Gorelick talks about Paul Friedman, highlighting their long-standing relationship and his distinguished career in public service and law. They first met while serving on the DC Bar Board, where Paul was president before Jamie. Paul's career spans notable roles, including Deputy Attorney General of the United States under Janet Reno and his service on the 9/11 Commission. Jamie praised his deep connection to the Buffalo community and his commitment to justice and diversity.

Jamie shared stories of Paul's leadership, like founding the Washington Legal Clinic for the Homeless and advocating for diversity in the legal profession and judiciary. She highlighted five key examples of his impact: addressing homelessness, promoting diversity, working on gender bias, advocating for judicial diversity, and founding the Fred Abramson Foundation. Jamie emphasized Paul's partnership with his wife Liz in these efforts and their collective passion for community service. Jamie concluded by recognizing Paul's exceptional ability to identify challenges and implement lasting solutions.

The speech was followed by heartfelt video tributes from Judge David Tatel, NPR’s Nina Totenberg, and Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, all celebrating Paul’s legacy and significant contributions to justice, fairness, and mentorship.

Keywords: Accomplishments; Contributions; Judiciary; Significant Cases

Subjects: LAW; PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE; CAREER: LEGAL

Segment Synopsis: Fine thanks the presenters for their insightful commentaries. The highlight of the event was the presentation of the Edwin F. Jaeckle Award to The Honorable Paul Friedman, an alumnus of the University of Buffalo (UB) School of Law, class of 1968. The award was presented by Dean Aviva Abramovsky and UB Law Alumni Association President Jeffrey Stravino.

The award recognized Judge Friedman's extraordinary contributions to the legal profession, including his impactful tenure on the federal bench, where he presided over several high-profile cases. His leadership, integrity, and dedication were praised, as well as his continued support for UB students.

In his acceptance speech, Judge Friedman reflected on his personal and professional journey, starting from his time growing up in Buffalo and his legal education at UB Law School. He fondly recalled his mentors and colleagues throughout his career, from his time in private practice to his work as a federal judge. He expressed deep gratitude to his law clerks, colleagues, and his family, particularly his wife, Liz, for their unwavering support over the years. Judge Friedman also spoke on broader themes, including the importance of the rule of law and the value of surrounding oneself with supportive and trustworthy people in both professional and personal life. He concluded by urging everyone to seek satisfaction and fulfillment in their careers and relationships.

The ceremony concluded with a final congratulatory note to Judge Friedman, followed by applause.

Keywords: Accomplishments; Contributions; Judiciary; Mentors; Value of Education; Significant Cases

Subjects: CAREER: LEGAL; EDUCATION; LAW; PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE; TEACHING; UB LAW AS STUDENT