Mahlon Pitney was born on May 5, 1858, in Morristown, New Jersey, to Sarah Louise and Henry Cooper Pitney. He came from a well-established family with a rich history in law and politics. Pitney's father was a prominent lawyer and judge, and his grandfather had served as a U.S. Congressman.
From a young age, Pitney showed great academic promise. He attended local schools in Morristown before enrolling at Princeton College, where he excelled in his studies. He graduated at the top of his class and went on to study law at Columbia Law School in New York City.
After completing his legal education, Pitney began his career as a lawyer in New Jersey. He quickly gained a reputation for his keen legal mind and integrity. In 1898, he was appointed as a judge on the New Jersey Court of Errors and Appeals, the state's highest court at the time.
Pitney's tenure on the bench was marked by a commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting individual rights. He gained a reputation as a fair and impartial judge, earning the respect of his colleagues and the legal community.
In 1912, Pitney was nominated by President William Howard Taft to serve as an associate justice on the U.S. Supreme Court. Pitney's nomination was met with widespread acclaim, as he was widely regarded as one of the most qualified candidates for the position.
During his time on the Supreme Court, Pitney distinguished himself as a staunch defender of individual liberties and limited government. He was known for his libertarian views and his commitment to interpreting the Constitution as it was originally intended.
One of Pitney's most notable decisions came in the case of Hammer v. Dagenhart, where he argued against federal regulation of child labor, citing states' rights and the limitations of federal power.
After serving on the Supreme Court for ten years, Pitney retired in 1922. He returned to New Jersey, where he continued to be active in legal circles and served as a mentor to young lawyers. Pitney passed away on December 9, 1924, leaving behind a legacy of integrity and dedication to the law.
Throughout his career, Pitney remained true to his principles and never wavered in his commitment to justice and the rule of law. His legacy continues to inspire generations of lawyers and jurists who seek to uphold the ideals of liberty and justice for all.