Arun Srinivas Subramanian, born in 1979 to Indian immigrant parents in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has etched his name in history as the first South Asian judge to serve on the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York. Confirmed by the U.S. Senate in March 2023, Subramanian’s journey from a clerk for Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg to presiding over high-profile cases, such as the 2025 Sean “Diddy” Combs trial, is a testament to his legal acumen, dedication to justice, and commitment to public service. This biography delves into his life, career, and contributions, offering a comprehensive look at a trailblazer shaping the American judicial landscape.
Early Life and Education: A Foundation Rooted in the American Dream
Arun Srinivas Subramanian was born in 1979 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to parents who had immigrated from India in the early 1970s. His father, a Tamil Indian, worked as a control systems engineer, while his mother served as a bookkeeper, embodying the hard-working spirit of immigrant families striving for a better future. Growing up in a Tamil household, Subramanian was instilled with values of diligence, intellectual curiosity, and a deep appreciation for education values that would guide his path to becoming a federal judge.
Subramanian’s academic journey began at Case Western Reserve University, where he graduated summa cum laude in 2001 with a Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science and English. His dual focus on technical and literary disciplines showcased his versatility and analytical prowess. During his time at Case Western, he developed an interest in history, literature, and philosophy, which would later influence his decision to pursue a legal career. He registered for selective military service at age 18 but never served, choosing instead to channel his energies into academics and public service.
In 2001, Subramanian enrolled at Columbia Law School, where he earned his Juris Doctor in 2004. At Columbia, he distinguished himself as a James Kent and Harlan Fiske Stone Scholar, recognizing his academic excellence. He also served as the Executive Articles Editor for the Columbia Law Review, where he published a student article on bankruptcy law and the interpretation of telecommunication contracts, foreshadowing his future expertise in complex litigation. His time at Columbia not only honed his legal skills but also ignited a passion for advocating for the underrepresented, a theme that would define his career.
Early Career: Clerkships and the Path to Legal Excellence
After graduating from Columbia Law School, Subramanian embarked on a series of prestigious clerkships that shaped his legal perspective and established his reputation as a rising star in the legal community. From 2004 to 2005, he clerked for Judge Dennis Jacobs of the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, gaining insight into appellate litigation. The following year, he served as a law clerk for Judge Gerard E. Lynch at the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, immersing himself in the operations of one of the nation’s most influential federal courts.
The pinnacle of his clerkship experience came from 2006 to 2007, when he clerked for Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. This role was transformative, exposing him to the highest echelons of judicial decision-making and deepening his commitment to justice and equity. Subramanian has often cited Justice Ginsburg’s influence, particularly her belief in the transformative power of a single generation, as a guiding force in his career. He referenced her famous quote that the difference between a bookkeeper in the Garment District and a Supreme Court justice is one generation during a 2024 keynote at Columbia Law School’s Alumni of Color event, emphasizing the possibilities of the American Dream for immigrant families like his own.
Private Practice: A Champion for Justice at Susman Godfrey LLP
In 2007, Subramanian joined Susman Godfrey LLP, a prominent New York law firm, as its first litigation associate in the New York office. His tenure at the firm was marked by rapid ascent and significant impact. By 2011, at the age of 31, he became the firm’s youngest partner, a testament to his legal talent and leadership. As a partner, Subramanian specialized in commercial and bankruptcy law, recovering over $1 billion for clients, including victims of fraud, exploitation, and unfair business practices. His work included high-stakes cases involving consumer protection and child trafficking, reflecting his dedication to advocating for the vulnerable.
Subramanian’s commitment to public service extended beyond paid cases. He devoted hundreds of hours to pro bono work, including briefing and arguing appeals as court-appointed counsel for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit. One notable case involved representing a formerly pro se appellant who alleged unconstitutional treatment during a forced body cavity and strip search in prison. Subramanian’s advocacy led to the appellate court vacating a district court’s summary judgment, highlighting his ability to navigate complex constitutional issues. In 2021, he created Susman Godfrey’s first pro bono committee, serving as its chair and coordinating the firm’s public interest efforts.
His contributions earned him numerous accolades, including the Legal Aid Society’s Pro Bono Publico Award in 2018, the New York Law Journal’s Rising Star designation in 2018, and the Tamil American Pioneer Award in 2014 from the Federation of Tamil Sangams of North America. In 2020, Chambers and Partners named him a Leading Litigator in Commercial Litigation, and in 2023, Benchmark Litigation recognized him as a Litigation Star.
Judicial Appointment: A Historic Milestone
Subramanian’s nomination to the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York marked a historic milestone. Recommended by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, who praised him as the “epitome of the American Dream,” Subramanian was nominated by President Joe Biden on September 2, 2022, to fill the seat vacated by Judge Alison Nathan, who was elevated to the Second Circuit Court of Appeals. The American Bar Association rated him “Well Qualified,” reflecting his stellar qualifications and reputation.
The nomination process was rigorous. On December 13, 2022, Subramanian’s hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee showcased his legal expertise and commitment to fairness. Despite a brief return of his nomination to the President under Senate Rule XXXI in January 2023, he was renominated on January 23, 2023. On February 9, 2023, the Senate Judiciary Committee reported his nomination out of committee by a 16–5 vote. On March 7, 2023, the Senate invoked cloture by a 58–37 vote, and later that day, his nomination was confirmed by a 59–37 vote. He received his judicial commission on April 13, 2023, becoming the first South Asian judge in the Southern District of New York, a district with one of the largest South Asian-American populations in the country.
On the Bench: Presiding with Authority and Compassion
As a U.S. District Judge, Subramanian has presided over a range of cases, from routine civil disputes to high-profile criminal trials. His courtroom at the Daniel Patrick Moynihan United States Courthouse in New York City is known for its meticulous attention to fairness, reflecting his belief that every case, regardless of its prominence, deserves equal consideration. In a 2024 speech at Columbia Law School, he noted that even “the smallest of cases” receive the same dedication from distinguished lawyers, reinforcing the public’s trust in the judicial system.
Subramanian’s most prominent case to date is the 2025 federal trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs, which began on May 5, 2025. Combs faces charges of racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and transportation for prostitution, with allegations dating back to 2004. Subramanian’s rulings have been pivotal, including denying Combs bail three times most recently on November 27, 2024 due to concerns about witness tampering. He also ruled that a video of Combs assaulting his ex-girlfriend Cassie in a hotel hallway was admissible, despite defense claims of manipulation. Subramanian set the trial date for May 5, 2025, with jury selection completed and opening statements scheduled for May 12. The trial, expected to last eight weeks, has drawn significant media attention, with Subramanian’s calm demeanor and approachable style noted for putting jurors at ease.
Personal Life and Personality: A Judge with Heart
Beyond the bench, Subramanian is known for his humility and lively personality. He is an avid karaoke enthusiast, hosting the first-ever karaoke event in the Southern District’s 235-year history, a tradition he hopes will endure. He buys his judicial robes online, a choice that amused his clerks due to their oversized fit, and avoids using his middle initial “S” to prevent the unfortunate monogram “A.S.S.” in court documents. His approachable nature was evident in a case where he represented the parents of Seth Rich in a defamation lawsuit against Fox News, personally paying for a lavish celebratory dinner after a settlement, treating the family “like family,” according to TMZ.
Subramanian’s commitment to mentorship is profound. In 2024, he welcomed high school students of color to his courtroom, offering advice for a moot court competition. He emphasized the importance of representation, recalling the students’ excitement at seeing “someone who looked like them” on the bench. His own experience as the child of immigrants fuels his dedication to inspiring the next generation.
Legacy and Impact: A Beacon for Representation
Arun Subramanian’s ascent to the federal bench is a landmark for diversity in the judiciary. As the first South Asian judge in the Southern District of New York, he represents a milestone for the South Asian-American community. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer described him as a history-maker, noting his dedication to fighting for average Americans. His legal career, marked by billion-dollar recoveries, pro bono service, and a commitment to justice, underscores his role as a champion for equity.
As he presides over the Combs trial and other cases, Subramanian continues to shape the legal landscape with a blend of authority, compassion, and humility. His story from the son of Indian immigrants to a federal judge overseeing one of the most influential courts in the nation embodies the possibilities of hard work and perseverance. As he navigates the complexities of the judiciary, Arun Subramanian remains a beacon of hope for those who believe in the power of representation and the pursuit of justice.