Paul Feinman, First Openly Gay Judge on NY’s Highest Court, Dies at 61

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Source: The New York Daily News

Statement from Governor Andrew Cuomo

“I am deeply saddened by the passing this morning of Justice Paul Feinman, who so ably served the people of the State of New York as a judge for more than 20 years, including as an Associate Justice on the Appellate Division of the New York State Supreme Court for the last four years.

“It’s often said that law reflects the morals of society, and Justice Feinman reflected the very best of New York. The first openly gay person to serve on the Court of Appeals, he was a lifelong champion of fairness, progress, equality, and justice – the very cornerstones of our state’s history and our country’s democracy. And just as importantly, he was a mentor, friend, and role model to countless LGBTQ attorneys, helping to shepherd us out of an era where being openly LGBTQ could mean disbarment and into an era where government embodies the public it serves. It was my honor to appoint him to the bench.

“My thoughts are with Justice Feinman’s husband, Robert, his loved ones, and all those who looked up to and saw themselves in him. His passing is an immeasurable loss for the State of New York, and we will miss him terribly.”

Source: The Office of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo

From The G-Man salutes Justice Feinman and his distinguished service to the state. May his family, friends and colleagues find some measure of comfort in the days to come, and may he forever rest in peace.