Federal Judge Harry D. Leinenweber, renowned for presiding over major trials in Chicago, passed away at 87 following a lung cancer diagnosis earlier this year.
The Chicago Sun-Times reported that Judge Leinenweber remained active on the bench until his passing, leaving an indelible mark on the legal community and beyond.
Judge Leinenweber died just before 6 p.m. on a Tuesday in his Gold Coast home. His wife, former U.S. Labor Secretary Lynn Martin, was by his side at the time. Leinenweber had been undergoing treatment for lung cancer in Florida, a battle he began earlier this year when he was first diagnosed.
Just last week, doctors informed the judge that his cancer had reached a critical stage, giving him limited time to live. In a bittersweet moment, he attended his 87th birthday party organized by his wife at the Union League Club.
Leinenweber’s distinguished career began with his nomination by President Ronald Reagan for a seat in the Northern District of Illinois in 1985. He took senior status in 2002 but did not stop working; he continued to preside over high-profile cases up until his death.
In recent years, Judge Leinenweber handled notable cases including the high-profile trial of R. Kelly in 2022 and the ComEd corruption trial in 2023. His passing is expected to potentially delay further proceedings in the ComEd case.
Throughout his career, Leinenweber was known for his firm but fair judicial demeanor. Lawyers and colleagues alike respected him for his intellect and common sense. Patrick Cotter, a lawyer, highlighted this by saying that before Judge Leinenweber, he always knew he was before a fair and diligent judge.
Cotter emphasized, “As good a judge as he was, he was an even finer human being. He was patient, kind, had a sense of humor, and cared about the people in his courtroom.”
Other prominent figures in the legal community shared their reflections. U.S. District Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer regarded Leinenweber as a friend, mentor, and exemplary jurist. “My colleagues and I are deeply saddened by Judge Leinenweber’s passing. We hope for comfort and peace for his family. We thank his family for sharing him with us for over 39 years,” Pallmeyer said.
Former U.S. District Judge Wayne Andersen lauded Leinenweber not only as a great public servant but also as a person who truly cared about the public. “He really cares about the public. He understands ordinary people and has great common sense. Underneath it all, he is a great intellectual,” Andersen observed.
Scott Lassar, another legal expert, described Leinenweber as a warm, funny, and fine judge. Former U.S. Attorney John Lausch similarly noted that it was an honor and a pleasure to practice before such a great judge and person.
One of Leinenweber’s most memorable moments on the bench was during his sentencing of Larry Hoover in 1998. Addressing Hoover, he remarked, “You were able to do what you did in jail for 25 years — you’re amazing. You must be a very charismatic person. … You misused a gift you got from God.”
In another significant case against Thomas J. Maloney, Leinenweber did not mince his words, saying, “Your words are too little and too late. Releasing dangerous criminals is atrocious. I personally agree 100% with [the] jury verdict.”
Leinenweber’s presence on the bench will be greatly missed, as highlighted by Kelly's attorney Jennifer Bonjean. She remarked, “He allowed attorneys to do their jobs and never put his thumb on the scales of justice. He was an honorable judge and an honorable man. The judiciary needs more judges like him. He will be missed by attorneys from all sides of the aisle.”
Robert Garnes encapsulated the judge’s courtroom demeanor saying, “He had complete control of the courtroom. … He knew how to put his foot down, and then he knew how to let it up. He was so cool and level-headed. He was the coolest judge I’ve ever seen, on TV or off TV.”
As the legal community mourns the loss of Judge Harry D. Leinenweber, they also celebrate his enduring legacy.
His commitment to justice, coupled with his humanity, left an indelible mark that will be remembered for years to come. The judiciary will undoubtedly feel his absence, and his contributions to notable cases will continue to be a benchmark for fairness and integrity.
