Definition
Kathleen Cardone is an American attorney and jurist who serves as a United States District Judge for the Western District of Texas.
Overview
Born in 1958, Cardone earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Texas at Austin and a Juris Doctor from the University of Texas School of Law. After completing her legal education, she worked in private practice and held various positions within the Texas state judicial system, including service as a judge on the 350th Judicial District Court.
On March 17, 2003, President George W. Bush nominated Cardone to the United States District Court for the Western District of Texas, filling a vacancy left by Judge William S. Sessions. The United States Senate confirmed her nomination on September 2, 2003, and she received her commission shortly thereafter. Judge Cardone has presided over a broad range of civil and criminal cases, encompassing issues such as federal criminal prosecutions, immigration matters, commercial disputes, and civil rights litigation.
Etymology/Origin
The given name Kathleen is an Anglicized form of the Irish name Caitlín, itself derived from the French Catherine, which ultimately originates from the Greek Aikaterine. The surname Cardone is of Italian origin, historically a topographic name referring to a “thorny” place, derived from the Italian word cardo (“thistle”).
Characteristics
- Judicial Role: As a federal district judge, Cardone exercises lifetime tenure under Article III of the United States Constitution, handling trial‑level federal matters and issuing rulings that may be appealed to the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit.
- Professional Reputation: Colleagues and legal commentators describe her as diligent and methodical, with a reputation for adhering closely to statutory text and precedent.
- Notable Decisions: While a comprehensive catalogue of her opinions is extensive, she has authored opinions in high‑profile cases involving immigration enforcement and federal civil rights statutes. Specific case details are beyond the scope of this entry.
Related Topics
- United States District Court for the Western District of Texas
- Federal judiciary of the United States
- List of United States federal judges appointed by George W. Bush
- Judicial appointments and confirmations in the United States Senate