Judge Jose L. Linares

Judge Jose L. Linares brings more than four decades of service as a judge, lawyer, and mediator, along with prior experience as a business owner. His career reflects a strong ability to resolve disputes by combining the perspective of both an advocate and a decision-maker. He has become widely respected for handling complex matters with balance and insight.

Jose earned his BA from New Jersey City University in 1975 before completing his JD at Temple University Beasley School of Law in 1978. His academic preparation laid the foundation for a career built on litigation, judicial service, and leadership. These degrees equipped him to pursue high-profile roles and later guide clients through multifaceted disputes with practical knowledge and legal skill.

Jose served as Chief Judge of the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey following his nomination and Senate confirmation in 2002. Earlier in his career, he had been a superior court judge in Essex County, New Jersey. Before entering judicial service, he led his own practice, where he represented clients in product liability and medical litigation. This range of experiences gave him a rare depth of understanding across trial and appellate matters.

Jose has extensive exposure to industries such as life sciences and financial services, presiding over major patent disputes, securities fraud actions, bankruptcy appeals, and multidistrict litigation. Since returning to private practice, he has participated in highly complex patent and commercial cases while also guiding corporate investigations and white collar defense matters. His leadership in alternative dispute resolution is widely recognized.

Judge Jose L. Linares continues to contribute as a legal thought leader while supporting community initiatives, mentoring younger professionals, and promoting civic engagement.

He has lectured nationwide on litigation and patent issues, taught as an adjunct professor, and organized major judicial symposia on sentencing and opioid challenges. Over the years, he has been honored with professional service and lifetime achievement awards that highlight his influence in law. In addition, he has held leadership roles in bar associations and professional boards, reflecting his deep commitment to advancing the profession.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, McCarter & English, LLP
• Member, New Jersey State Bar Association
• Member, American Bar Association
• Member, American Board of Trial Advocates
• Member, Cuban American Bar Association
• Past President, Hispanic Bar Association of New Jersey
• Member, Miami International Arbitration Society
• Past Board Member, New Jersey Supreme Court Board on Attorney Certification
• Board Member, The Association of the Federal Bar of New Jersey

Licensed State

• New Jersey

Education

• Temple University Beasley School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• New Jersey City University

  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges