Leslie C. Garnett (1920-1921)

Early History/Schooling: Leslie Garnett was from Virginia, and was the son of Judge Garnett, a Virginia state judge.   

Tenure as AAG:  In 1920, President Wilson promoted Garnett to Assistant Attorney General of the Division of Public Lands in a recess appointment.  He had served as an assistant to Frank Nebeker, AAG of the Lands Division, who was then appointed AAG of the Antitrust Division.   During his tenure, Garnett argued three cases before the Supreme Court relating to Indian land disputes.

Career:  Prior to joining the Justice Department, Garnett served as the Assistant Attorney General of Virginia where he occasionally advised on Indian matters.  From 1934-1937, Garnett served as the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia.  In 1934, while serving as District Attorney for the District of Columbia, he came under fire for his comments assailing the role of women in the legal profession.  Garnett indicated that he did not intend to appoint any women as assistant District attorneys and was quoted as saying, “There is no place for them in this office.”  Garnett also served as Chancellor of National University, which later merged with George Washington University in 1954.
 
Personal: Garnett married Clara Garnett and together they had one child, G. Tinsley.  Garnett died in 1958. 

This material is based on the review of a variety of historical sources, and its accuracy cannot be guaranteed.  If you have any corrections or additional information about this individual or about the history of the Division, please contact ENRD.