by The Honorable David O. Carter and The Honorable Maria D. Hernandez
“OPPORTUNITY FOR GREATNESS!!!” Anyone who has walked the halls with Judge Fred W. Slaughter or spent any amount of time with him knows this booming phrase well. But for Judge Slaughter, these words are far more than a catchy motto, they are a way of life. Rooted in a sense of purpose, connection, and community, his commitment to helping others see and achieve their fullest potential shines through in all that he does. His warmth, inclusiveness, and resolve to uplift others define not only his work as a judge but his life as a husband, father, mentor, and community leader.
Judge Slaughter’s approach to justice is personal and transformative. Rather than seeing the law as abstract, he views it as a deep human system meant to serve real people, each with their own story, challenges, and dreams. He has built bridges across the legal community, creating long-lasting relationships grounded in mutual respect and shared values. His leadership has helped shape a legal culture that more accurately reflects the diverse, dynamic communities it serves.
As one young student said after a school visit with Judge Slaughter, “Judge Slaughter empowered me to try my best in everything I do.”
Another added: “He reminded us that every day is a new day to be better, and to treat others with fairness and compassion.”
These simple but powerful reflections demonstrate why Judge Slaughter has been selected as the 2025 recipient of the Lei Lei Wang Ekvall Award—an honor reserved for individuals who embody the values of diversity, equity, inclusion, and professional excellence.
Family and Foundation The roots of Judge Slaughter’s compassion and leadership are planted firmly in family. With his beaming smile, he often shares that his family is everything to him. His beloved wife, Nicole, and their three children—Milla (18), Alina (16), and Dirk (14)—are his strength and joy. Whether they are hiking through Orange County trails, supporting local sports teams, or simply enjoying time together, the Slaughters are united by love, joy, and gratitude. These values are the compass by which Judge Slaughter navigates both his personal and professional life.
Many know Judge Slaughter as the son of Fred L. Slaughter, a Hall of Fame basketball player under the legendary Coach John Wooden and a pioneering African American attorney who broke barriers in law and sports. But equally impactful is the influence of Judge Slaughter’s mother, Kay, a lifelong nurse and proud UCLA alumna who dedicated over five decades to serving her community with compassion and care. Her example helped instill in Judge Slaughter a deep respect for service and empathy.
In 1964, Kay and Fred Sr. met on Bruin Walk as UCLA undergraduates and quickly fell in love. Fred studied marketing, and Kay studied nursing. They stayed in touch as Fred continued at Columbia Law School. By 1970, they were married, and Fred returned to UCLA as a law school administrator. Judge Carter first met Fred Sr. when they were both undergraduates on athletic scholarships at UCLA in 1962. Later, as a law student at UCLA, Judge Carter again came across Fred Slaughter when he was a law school administrator, never imagining he would one day work alongside his son on the federal bench.
Kay Slaughter is a native Angeleno who grew up enjoying the beach. Kay graduated from UCLA and became a registered nurse. She was also a full-time mom for decades to Fred and his sister. As a mother, Kay was positive, supportive, and solution-oriented, balancing a nurturing spirit with a love for adventure, often taking her kids camping. Kay returned to nursing after being a full-time mother, retiring in 2016. As a nurse, she became known for her exceptional kindness and care—qualities that earned her the admiration of everyone she worked with. Judge Slaughter describes her as a modern-day Florence Nightingale. As a grandmother, Kay remains an integral and beloved part of the family, a strong and cherished link between generations.
Judge Fred Slaughter is a reflection of his parents’ extraordinary work ethic, kindness, and positivity. His belief in the power of relationships is evident in all aspects of his life. Whether with family, friends, colleagues, or those who appear before him, he is deeply present.
These foundational values were on full display during Judge Slaughter’s time in the Juvenile Division. There, he would often tell young people appearing before him, “If you don’t have family to support you . . . we are your family.”
“My family reminds me every day of what really matters: love, integrity, and relationships,” he says. Judge Slaughter ensures that everyone feels this sense of family.
From Bruin Roots to the Bench UCLA is more than a university to the Slaughter family; it is a cherished legacy. With both his parents as Bruins, and he and Nicole following in their footsteps, the campus is interwoven into their family story. Judge Slaughter proudly earned his bachelor’s degree in business economics and his juris doctor from UCLA School of Law, becoming a “double Bruin” in 1999. Today, his deep pride in the university remains, and he often reflects on the way UCLA helped shape his path and values.
After law school, Judge Slaughter dedicated himself to public service. He began his career in the Los Angeles City Attorney’s Office and later took on the role of Deputy City Attorney. After Judge Slaughter’s first hearing, he asked his supervisor, “This is a real job—I can get paid to do this?” It was the beginning of a love for trial work. His commitment to public safety led to his work as the Project Safe Neighborhoods Coordinator, and ultimately, to his tenure as an Assistant United States Attorney, serving in the Central District of California, Oregon, and Arizona. Across each of these roles, his integrity, work ethic, and dedication to justice remained constant.
Judge Carter recalls presiding over a lengthy trial with Slaughter when he was an Assistant United States Attorney. During the trial, Slaughter showed his professionalism and perseverance in a multi-defendant four-month trial.
Service on the Superior Court In 2014, Judge Slaughter was appointed to the Orange County Superior Court by Governor Jerry Brown. He quickly distinguished himself in multiple assignments, including leadership roles in both criminal and civil panels. His time in the Juvenile Division from 2015 to 2018 was especially impactful, where he presided over Recovery Court and other initiatives focused on youth in crisis. More than a judge, he became a mentor—offering legal guidance, encouragement, and often coming off the bench for a “fist bump” to help youth feel seen and supported.
His commitment to outreach extended far beyond the courtroom. Judge Slaughter’s work with the Constitutional Rights Foundation, All Rise Mentor Program, and a variety of community organizations has empowered hundreds of students and families. These programs are not boxes to be checked; they are reflections of his deep, personal investment in future generations.
A colleague once remarked, “His father is in the Basketball Hall of Fame, but Judge Slaughter belongs in the Kids’ Hall of Fame.” That sentiment captures how Judge Slaughter leads, with heart, humor, and humanity.
During times of national crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the racial reckoning that followed the murder of George Floyd, Judge Slaughter provided steady and thoughtful leadership. He helped amplify the message of then-Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye: that equity and fairness must be more than aspirational ideals; they must be daily, lived commitments. Judge Slaughter carried that message forward, urging his colleagues and community to remove barriers, confront bias, and ensure justice for all.
Judge Terri K. Flynn-Peister, Criminal Supervising Judge for the Orange County Superior Court, said: “He is intelligent, hardworking, and approachable. Anyone who knows Fred knows his relentless positivity is genuine and infectious. He strives to improve the lives of everyone he meets.” Having known him for nearly two decades, she credits his collaborative spirit and commitment to people as the cornerstone of his success.
Return to Federal Service In 2022, President Joe Biden appointed Judge Slaughter to the United States District Court, where he assumed office on April 19, 2022. His return to federal service marked a new chapter in his judicial journey, expanding his influence and reinforcing his lifelong dedication to fairness and accountability.
Though his departure from the Orange County Superior Court was bittersweet for many, the community took pride in seeing him ascend to a higher court. His presence continues to resonate in both state and federal courts alike.
During his federal induction ceremony, Judge Carter shared a saying from UCLA Coaches John Wooden and Ducky Drake: “If you can’t finish first, finish second. If you can’t finish second, finish third. And if you can’t finish third, give your very best effort, and you’ll have our respect.” Judge Carter told the newly appointed Judge Slaughter: “You have our respect.” The audience and Judge Slaughter burst into laughter.
Judge Slaughter’s impact quickly extended beyond his own caseload in federal court. Given his outstanding record in juvenile court and his collaborative approach, the chief judge asked him to take on leadership roles in the Substance Abuse Treatment and Reentry Program (STAR) and the Conviction and Sentence Alternatives (CASA) program. He brings energy and compassion to these initiatives—leading hikes, hosting holiday meals, and building meaningful community for those who have never felt a part of a team or family. Judge Slaughter is committed to listening to participants, fostering a team environment, and infusing every interaction with love and respect. He also understands that meaningful change takes time and is patient. He believes he is planting seeds of hope and change that may take time to grow.
He considers himself to be an “uncle” or “brother” to participants, fostering a sense of belonging. Judge Slaughter’s approach to CASA and STAR is the same as how he treats everyone who appears before him in federal court: with attentiveness, curiosity, and respect. He is solutions-oriented, always striving to help people become their best selves.
Judge Slaughter’s energy is contagious—from law clerks and staff members to fellow judges, you can count on an encouraging word or one of his signature catchphrases: “Every moment is an opportunity for greatness,” “Positive energy, positive results,” “You can’t be MVP sitting on the bench,” “Everyone wants to win, but are you prepared to win?” “If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go with a team,” “Wherever you are, that’s the place to be,” and “You are the right person for this moment.”
Staff working with Judge Slaughter share that his energy could light the courthouse for a year. He embodies the values we strive for every day, not just as a judge, but as a human being. We are fortunate to have him.
Attorney Kate Corrigan, who practices in both state and federal court, says:
“Not only is Slaughter a great judge with thoughtful, thorough rulings, but he’s also like an ambassador for the legal community. He is warm and welcoming. The public, lawyers, and participants all know that they will be heard.”
For Judge Carter, having Judge Slaughter as a colleague on the federal bench represents a full-circle moment from meeting Fred Sr. to serving with his son.
The Robe as a Symbol of Service Throughout his career, Judge Slaughter has used the power of the robe to bring people closer to justice, to dignity, and to a sense of belonging. His leadership style is not based on authority alone, but on authentic connection.
As one former colleague and staff member shared, “Whether mentoring a new judge, meeting with a student, or pausing to greet a staff member by name, Judge Slaughter made everyone feel valued. His integrity never needed a spotlight, it was visible in every small, consistent act of respect.”
His kindness is never performative. It’s persistent. It’s genuine. It is who he is.
Honoring a Legacy of Belonging The Lei Lei Wang Ekvall Award honors those who lead with both excellence and empathy. Judge Slaughter embodies both. His work makes justice not only possible but personal. He ensures that equity is not merely discussed but practiced, and that inclusion is not a trend but a truth.
The words of Maya Angelou serve as a fitting tribute: “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” That is the legacy Judge Fred W. Slaughter continues to build. Like Lei Lei Ekvall before him, he reminds us all that we belong, that we matter. And more than that, he invites us to seize our own “Opportunity for Greatness.”
In an era when the legal system faces unprecedented challenges and scrutiny, Judge Slaughter remains a beacon of hope, humility, and honor. He is an ambassador leading with integrity, building bridges, and showing us all how justice, at its best, is not just about the law, but about people.
The Honorable David O. Carter is a U.S. District Court Judge for the Central District of California. The Honorable Maria D. Hernandez is Presiding Judge of Orange County Superior Court.