Associate Justice Rachel Wainer Apter

Early Life and Education

Born July 22, 1980, in Rockaway, New Jersey, Justice Apter graduated summa cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania. She earned her J.D. magna cum laude from Harvard Law School in 2007.

Early Legal Career

Following law school, she clerked for Judge Jed S. Rakoff (SDNY), Judge Robert Katzmann (2nd Circuit), and U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. She then practiced in the Supreme Court and Appellate litigation group at Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe, handling cases in federal and state appeals.

Role in Civil Rights Enforcement

Prior to joining the bench, Apter served as Director of the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights, leading initiatives to combat systemic bias and protect civil rights across the state. She previously served as Counsel to the New Jersey Attorney General, where she managed high-stakes cases including defense of DACA in federal courts.

Appointment to the New Jersey Supreme Court

Nominated by Governor Phil Murphy in March 2021, her confirmation was delayed by senatorial courtesy before finally proceeding in 2022. She was confirmed by the State Senate on October 17, 2022, and sworn in on October 21, 2022, becoming an Associate Justice. Her current term runs through October 21, 2029.

Professional Accomplishments & Legacy

Justice Apter is recognized for her intellectual rigor and dedication to civil rights advocacy. Her leadership in defense of voting rights, disability law, and systemic equity underscores her commitment to justice. She is one of New Jersey’s youngest female Supreme Court justices and the first justice selected following the Hughes Compact delays.