Arlin M. Adams, American lawyer and judge (d. 2015)

Arlin Marvin Adams (April 16, 1921 – December 22, 2015) was a distinguished American jurist and legal professional whose career spanned decades, marked by significant contributions to both the federal judiciary and private legal practice. Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Adams carved out a reputation as a thoughtful and incisive legal mind.

His most prominent role was undoubtedly as a United States Circuit Judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit. Appointed to this prestigious position, Judge Adams served on one of the thirteen federal appellate courts that sit below the U.S. Supreme Court. The Third Circuit holds jurisdiction over appeals from federal district courts in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. In this capacity, he played a crucial role in interpreting federal law and setting legal precedents that impacted millions of citizens and numerous businesses within the circuit's purview, influencing a wide array of legal areas from constitutional law to administrative regulations, thereby shaping the legal landscape for a significant portion of the Mid-Atlantic region.

Even after his extensive judicial service, Judge Adams remained an active and respected figure in the legal community. As late as 2013, he continued to serve as counsel to Schnader Harrison Segal & Lewis LLP, a prominent law firm with a rich history, particularly in Philadelphia. In this advisory role, he lent his considerable experience and judgment to the firm, offering guidance on complex legal matters and strategy, embodying a lifelong commitment to the law beyond the bench.

Further demonstrating his breadth of expertise and continued relevance, Adams was also listed as a NAFTA adjudicator. This role involved resolving disputes under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), an international pact between Canada, Mexico, and the United States. As an adjudicator, he would have been part of a panel tasked with impartially reviewing and settling trade and investment disagreements between the member countries, a testament to his reputation for fairness and legal acumen on an international stage.

Frequently Asked Questions About Arlin M. Adams

What was Arlin Marvin Adams' primary judicial role?
Arlin Marvin Adams served as a United States Circuit Judge on the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit, a federal appellate court.
What is the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit?
It is one of thirteen federal appellate courts in the United States, responsible for hearing appeals from federal district courts in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. It plays a critical role in interpreting federal law and setting precedents for these jurisdictions.
What was Arlin Adams' involvement with Schnader Harrison Segal & Lewis LLP?
After his distinguished judicial career, he served as counsel to the prominent law firm Schnader Harrison Segal & Lewis LLP, providing advisory and strategic legal guidance as late as 2013, showcasing his enduring commitment to the legal profession.
What does it mean to be a NAFTA adjudicator?
As a NAFTA adjudicator, Arlin Adams would have been part of a dispute resolution panel under the North American Free Trade Agreement. This role involved impartially reviewing and settling trade and investment disputes between Canada, Mexico, and the United States, demonstrating his expertise in international trade law.
When did Arlin Marvin Adams live?
Arlin Marvin Adams was born on April 16, 1921, and passed away on December 22, 2015, dedicating over 90 years to a life of service and legal scholarship.