President Obama has named the Hon. Merrick B. Garland, Chief Judge of the United States Circuit Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, to take the Supreme Court seat of the late Associate Justice Scalia.
Patent Experience: Although his court had jurisdiction over review of Patent Office actions under 35 USC § 145 during his tenure on the D.C. Circuit, it does not appear that the Chief Judge issued any patent opinions.
Problematic Confirmation: The jurist is clearly qualified for the position on the Supreme Court. But, whether the Senate leadership permits confirmation proceedings to take place is unclear.
Regards,
Hal