Helen Ginger Berrigan

Helen Georgena Roberts Berrigan (April 15, 1948 – November 15, 2024), known professionally as Helen Ginger Berrigan and Ginger Berrigan, was a senior United States district judge of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana.

Berrigan served as a district court judge of the District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana in the United States. She was appointed to this position by President Bill Clinton in 1994. Between 2001 and 2008, Berrigan dutifully served as the chief judge of the Eastern District. Before this appointment, she had been serving as a criminal defense attorney. During her career, she also served as a freelance reporter to various publications based in different regions. Berrigan authored the Louisiana Criminal Trial Practice. Apart from her career as a lawyer and journalist, Berrigan also led in various associations like the New Orleans Association for Women Attorneys.

Early life and education Berrigan was born in New Rochelle, New York, on April 15, 1948. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1969, a Master of Arts from American University in 1971, and a Juris Doctor from Louisiana State University Law School in 1977. In China, Turkey, Malawi, Azerbaijan, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, she has finished "rule of law" trainings that allow her to practice law within these countries.

Career Following her graduation from Louisiana State University Law School, Berrigan was a staff attorney of Governor's Pardon, Parole and Rehabilitation Commission from 1977 to 1978.

Notable cases In February 2014, in which Nagin was found to have participated among six others in a conspiracy and 59 related acts spanning his entire time as mayor. Nagin's requests for supplemental time prior to the trial in October 2013 were denied, and it continued as a Speedy Trial. contrary to his promises when assuming office that he would reform the corrupt New Orleans City Hall. He was found guilty on 20 of 21 charges, and acquitted on one. This case is considered noteworthy because it is the first trial in which a New Orleans mayor was tried and convicted on corruption charges.