Associate Justice Fredrick W. Hall

Overview

Justice Fredrick W. Hall was a distinguished jurist whose tenure on the New Jersey Supreme Court spanned over sixteen years. Known for his integrity, intellectual rigor, and administrative competence, Hall contributed significantly to the state’s judiciary, combining a strong academic background with decades of public service.

Early Life and Education

Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on February 22, 1908, Hall attended public schools in Neshanic and Bound Brook.

He earned his Litt.B. degree from Rutgers University in 1928, where he was elected to Phi Beta Kappa, and received his LL.B., cum laude, from Harvard Law School in 1931.

Legal Career

Admitted to the New Jersey Bar as an attorney in 1932 and as a counsellor in 1936, Hall began his legal career in Newark, working alongside Arthur T. Vanderbilt.

In 1941, he co-founded the law firm Wharton & Hall in Somerville, which later became Wharton, Hall, Stewart & Halpern. His practice reflected a commitment to both legal excellence and community service.

Judicial Service

Justice Hall was appointed as a Superior Court Judge in December 1953, where he served as assignment judge in several counties.

In March 1959, he was appointed to the New Jersey Supreme Court by Governor Robert B. Meyner, succeeding Justice Wachenfeld. Over his sixteen years on the bench, Hall was known for fairness, thoughtful reasoning, and a deep respect for the law.

He retired on March 31, 1975, after a distinguished judicial career.

Professional and Civic Involvement

Justice Hall was an active member of several organizations, including the American Bar Association, New Jersey State Bar Association, Somerset Bar Association, and the American Judicature Society.

He also served as President of the Bound Brook Board of Education and on the Board of Managers of the New Jersey State Village for Epileptics, demonstrating his commitment to public service beyond the courtroom.

Retirement and Legacy

Justice Hall passed away on July 7, 1984, at the age of 76. His long service to the judiciary and the legal profession left a lasting imprint on New Jersey’s legal landscape, remembered for both his intellect and humanity.