Who Is Richard J. Leon? Age, Biography and Wiki
Born on December 3, 1949, Richard J. Leon is a distinguished American judge known for his service on the United States District Court for the District of Columbia. As of 2025, he is 75 years old. Leon has a reputation for his commitment to upholding the law while also being recognized for his various rulings that have garnered media attention. His legal journey has not only shaped his career but also impacted many areas of American law.
| Occupation | Lawyers |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | December 3, 1949 |
| Age | 75 Years |
| Birth Place | Natick, Massachusetts, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Sagittarius |
| Country | U.S |
Popularity
Richard J. Leon's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While Richard J. Leon's specific height and weight details are not widely publicized, he is often seen embodying a professional and approachable demeanor typical of seasoned judges. His engaging presence suggests someone who values both health and professionalism.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
As of 2025, Richard J. Leon has not publicly disclosed details about his personal relationships. There are no reports of him having a boyfriend or girlfriend in the limelight, nor any indication of a spouse. For the majority of his career, he has kept his family and personal life private, focusing on his judicial responsibilities.
In August 2016 Leon issued a controversial stay of the Purple Line, a long-delayed light rail transit project in the D.C. suburbs, insisting that the project needed another Environmental Impact Statement. Maryland Governor Larry Hogan noted Leon's close relationship with the Columbia Country Club, a prominent opponent of the project. Leon's ruling was later overruled.
Net Worth and Salary
Richard J. Leon's net worth is estimated to be in the range of millions, reflecting his successful career as a federal judge and his previous roles in various legal capacities. Federal judges in the United States earn a substantial salary, with figures often exceeding $200,000 annually, contributing to a stable financial status through years of public service and legal expertise.
Career, Business and Investments
Leon’s career is marked by significant legal appointments and rulings. He was nominated by President George W. Bush in 2002 and has presided over numerous high-profile cases throughout his tenure. His background in law includes expertise in complex commercial disputes and constitutional law. While specific investments are not publicly detailed, judges often invest in varying assets like real estate, contributing to their financial portfolios.
On May 27, 2025, Judge Leon ruled in WilmerHale v. Executive Office of the President, striking down Executive Order 14250 issued by former President Donald J. Trump. The order targeted the law firm WilmerHale due to its association with former Special Counsel Robert S. Mueller III.
It directed federal agencies to suspend the firm’s security clearances, restrict access to federal buildings, and review existing contracts. Judge Leon found the order to be retaliatory and unconstitutional, violating the First and Fifth Amendments.
In a 73-page opinion, he wrote, “The cornerstone of the American system of justice is an independent judiciary and an independent bar willing to tackle unpopular cases, however daunting.”
Social Network
Richard J. Leon maintains a low-profile presence on social media. Unlike many public figures, he opts to keep his professional life separate from personal social networks. Information about his opinions on current legal issues or personal insights are typically shared through official court announcements or legal publications rather than social media platforms.
On November 29, 2018, Leon raised concerns surrounding the recent close of a $68 billion merger between CVS Health and Aetna Inc. after learning CVS closed its acquisition before obtaining court approval of an antitrust settlement the companies reached with the government.
In expressing skepticism over the merger, Leon cited opposition from the American Medical Association (AMA), which previously warned that the deal would lead to higher premium and out-of-pocket costs for patients purchasing drugs, as well as reduce the quality of health insurance.
Leon chided the companies and the Justice Department for treating him like a “rubber stamp," complaining he was “being kept in the dark” about the closing of the merger.
Education
Leon earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Notre Dame and later received his Juris Doctor from the Catholic University of America, Columbus School of Law. His strong educational foundation has been instrumental in shaping his legal career and judicial philosophy. He has been active in nurturing future legal minds, often contributing to educational discussions and seminars.
Leon received his Bachelor of Arts degree from College of the Holy Cross in 1971, where he played varsity lacrosse and was a classmate of future Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas. He received his Juris Doctor, cum laude, from Suffolk University Law School in 1974.
