Louis H. Burke

Louis H. Burke was a presiding justice in Division 4 from October 1, 1961, to November 18, 1964. He was born on January 4, 1905, in Montebello, California, and passed away on April 28, 1986.

Education:

Burke received an honorary Doctor of Laws (LL.D.) from Loyola Law School in 1964. He was a member of the Order of the Coif, an honor society for law students. He also earned a Bachelor of Philosophy (Ph.B.) and a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) from Loyola Law School in 1926. Prior to that, he completed an Associate of Arts (AA) degree at Pasadena City College in 1940. He was admitted to the State Bar in March 1927.

Judicial Experience:

Burke served as an Associate Justice on the California Supreme Court from November 18, 1964, to November 20, 1974, after being appointed by Governor Brown. Before that, he was the Presiding Justice of the California Court of Appeal, Second Appellate District, Division 4 from October 1, 1961, to November 18, 1964, also appointed by Governor Brown. His judicial career began as a Judge on the Los Angeles Superior Court, a position he held from December 17, 1951, to October 1, 1961, after being appointed by Governor Warren.

Professional Background:

Before his judicial career, Burke worked as the General Counsel for the League of California Cities from 1932 to 1946. He also served as the City Attorney for the City of Montebello from 1928 to 1947. He was in private practice in Los Angeles, California, from 1927 to 1951. In addition to his legal career, Burke served as a Major in the U.S. Army during World War II from 1943 to 1946.