Associate Justice Alan B. Handler

Overview

Justice Alan B. Handler served over two decades on the New Jersey Supreme Court, where he earned a reputation for intellectual depth, fairness, and a deep sense of public responsibility. His career reflected a lifelong commitment to the principles of justice, constitutional integrity, and public service.

Early Life and Education

Born in Newark, New Jersey, on July 20, 1931, Alan B. Handler attended Newark Academy before entering Princeton University, where he graduated magna cum laude and was elected to Phi Beta Kappa in 1953.

He also earned a degree from the Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs and completed his law degree at Harvard Law School in 1956, the same year he was admitted to the bar.

Public and Judicial Career

Justice Handler began his public service as Deputy Attorney General (1961–1964) and later as First Assistant Attorney General (1964–1968).

In 1967, Governor Richard J. Hughes appointed him to the Superior Court, where he later advanced to the Appellate Division in 1973.

After a period as Special Counsel to Governor Brendan T. Byrne (1976–1977), he was appointed to the New Jersey Supreme Court on February 11, 1977 and confirmed by the Senate on March 21, 1977. Justice Handler took his oath of office two days later.

Later Service and Retirement

Justice Handler served with distinction until his retirement on August 31, 1999. Beyond the bench, he contributed to legal scholarship as a past president of the Harvard Law School Association of New Jersey and as an associate editor of the New Jersey Law Journal.

Personal Life and Legacy

Justice Handler and his wife, Rose Marie, raised five children. His long tenure and thoughtful opinions left a lasting influence on the jurisprudence of New Jersey, reinforcing the judiciary’s role in safeguarding fairness and justice.