Paul Feinman, first openly gay judge on Court of Appeals, has died at 61

Court of Appeals Judge Paul Feinman has died at the age of 61. Eagle file photo by Paul Frangipane

By Rachel Vick

New York State Court of Appeals judge Paul Feinman has died at the age of 61, a week after retiring due to health concerns.

Feinman was the first openly gay judge to serve on the state’s highest court when he was appointed in 2017. He previously served on the bench in New York City Civil and Supreme Court.

He was remembered by colleagues in the bar and on the bench Wednesday for his wisdom, sense of justice and dedication to public service.

“Judge Feinman served with excellence at every level of our judiciary, and his broad experience, knowledge and wisdom earned him the respect and warm personal regard of his judicial colleagues," said Chief Judge Janet DiFiore. 

“No one who knew Judge Feinman could be unmoved by his personal warmth and empathy, good humor and sparkling intelligence,” she added. “He was a singular human being who has left a proud and enduring legacy for all of us. We mourn Paul's passing, but we will always be inspired by his life and legacy.” 

The Long Island-born jurist started his career as a staff lawyer at the Legal Aid Society after graduating from the University of Minnesota Law School in 1985.

He also served as the Chair of the New York State Justice Task Force, Past President of the International Association of LGBT Judges and Past President of the Association of Supreme Court Justices of the State of New York.

 New York State Bar Association President Scott Karson said he was “deeply saddened” by Feinman’s death and recalled his role as an LGBTQ trailblazer.

“With his passing, we have lost his wisdom and keen sense of justice,” Karson said. “We have also lost a champion of the rights of our LGBTQ citizens.”

Feinman is survived by his husband Robert Ostergaard.