February 2006

AO Director to Retire in 2006

Leonidas Ralph Mecham, Director of the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts for more than 20 years, has announced he will retire this year. Mecham has agreed to stay until a successor is in place. A search committee named by the Chief Justice is now reviewing candidates.

Mecham’s tenure at the AO has been marked by remarkable advances in technology in the federal courts, the decentralization of administrative functions, substantial increases in pay over inflation, a much-needed courthouse construction program, the development of an outstanding benefits program for judges and employees, and many other successes. “My goals throughout my tenure were good relations, openness, accountability and achievement, leadership, and service to the courts,” said Mecham. “I leave believing I have accomplished most, if not all, of those goals, in great part through an outstanding AO staff, the best in government.”