The docket just got personal for one federal judge — because the only thing higher than the federal bench was allegedly his blood-alcohol level.
Judge Thomas L. Ludington of the Eastern District of Michigan is facing misdemeanor DUI charges after a fall crash that police say involved a “super drunk” blood-alcohol level of more than twice the legal limit.
According to Michigan state police, this past October, Ludington’s vehicle hit multiple traffic signs and later crashed, deploying an airbag. A subsequent test allegedly showed a BAC of 0.17 or higher — enough to trigger the state’s enhanced “super drunk” law. As noted by the Midland Daily News, the judge’s exact blood-alcohol level has not been made public.
AI Is Reshaping Legal Practice—But Tools Aren’t The Real Differentiator.
Explore the mindset, cultural shifts, and training strategies that define the AI‑savvy lawyer, revealing why human judgment, standardized competence, and integrated learning—not technology alone—will shape the future of the profession.
Ludington was charged with operating a vehicle while intoxicated and operating with a blood alcohol content of 0.17 or more, and was released on a $500 bond. He pleaded not guilty to the charges on October 6, and has continued to hear cases while awaiting trial.
Ludington’s jury trial is set for February 27.
Support resources exist for lawyers, legal professionals, and law students struggling with alcohol use, and reaching out for help is a responsible and constructive step. If you or someone you know is in need of help, please call a lawyer assistance program in your state.
Federal judge Thomas Ludington charged with ‘super drunk’ DUI after Michigan crash [Midland Daily News]
Filevine’s New Legal AI Platform LOIS Turns AI Into A True Legal Coworker
Legal work isn’t slowing down, and the firms that win won’t be the ones working harder — they’ll be the ones working smarter.
Staci Zaretsky is the managing editor of Above the Law, where she’s worked since 2011. She’d love to hear from you, so please feel free to email her with any tips, questions, comments, or critiques. You can follow her on Bluesky, X/Twitter, and Threads, or connect with her on LinkedIn.