Starr's Tenure on the United States District Court for the Western District of Michigan

Starr's Tenure on the United States District Court for the Western District of Michigan

The American federal judiciary relies on a rigorous process of nomination and confirmation to ensure the stability and integrity of the legal system. One such appointment occurred in the mid-20th century when Starr was called to serve the Western District of Michigan, marking the beginning of a distinguished period of judicial service.

The Path to the Federal Bench

On July 3, 1946, President Harry S. Truman nominated Starr to a seat on the United States District Court for the Western District of Michigan. This vacancy was created following the departure of Judge Fred Morton Raymond. Following the nomination, the United States Senate reviewed the appointment and provided confirmation on July 23, 1946.

Starr officially received his commission on July 25, 1946, formally beginning his duties as a federal judge.

Judicial portrait of Starr, 1983, by Roy C. Gamble.
Judicial portrait of Starr, 1983, by Roy C. Gamble.
: Judicial portrait of Starr, 1983, by Roy C. Gamble.

Leadership and Senior Status

Throughout his tenure, Starr rose to a position of significant leadership within the court. From 1954 to 1961, he served as the Chief Judge, the administrative head of the district court.

On August 15, 1961, Starr assumed senior status. In the federal court system, senior status is a form of semi-retirement that allows judges to continue hearing a reduced caseload while creating a vacancy for a new presidential appointment.

Starr continued to serve the court in this capacity until his death on November 2, 1968.

Key Facts

  • Nominated by: President Harry S. Truman on July 3, 1946.
  • Court: United States District Court for the Western District of Michigan.
  • Predecessor: Judge Fred Morton Raymond.
  • Chief Judge Tenure: 1954 to 1961.
  • Senior Status Date: August 15, 1961.
  • Service End: November 2, 1968 (date of death).
Timeline of Judicial Service for Starr
Date Event/Milestone
July 3, 1946 Nominated by President Harry S. Truman
July 23, 1946 Confirmed by the United States Senate
July 25, 1946 Received judicial commission
1954–1961 Served as Chief Judge
August 15, 1961 Assumed senior status
November 2, 1968 End of service due to death

Frequently Asked Questions

Who nominated Starr to the federal bench?

Starr was nominated by President Harry S. Truman on July 3, 1946.

Which specific court did Starr serve on?

He served on the United States District Court for the Western District of Michigan.

When did Starr serve as Chief Judge?

Starr held the position of Chief Judge from 1954 until 1961.

What is senior status in the context of Starr's career?

Starr assumed senior status on August 15, 1961, which allowed him to continue serving the court in a limited capacity until his death in 1968.

Who was the judge that Starr succeeded?

Starr filled the seat vacated by Judge Fred Morton Raymond.