Picard, Frank A., 1889-1963

Chairman of Michigan Liquor Control Commission, 1932-1934, president of Michigan Bar Association, and U.S. Judge of Eastern District of Michigan, 1939-1963.

Frank A. Picard was born in Saginaw, Michigan on October 19, 1889. He graduated from the University of Michigan in 1912, then went into private practice. In addition to the law, Picard also served in government as chairman of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (1932-1934). He resigned in 1934 when he became the candidate of the Democratic Party for the US Senate in 1934. Though defeated, he remained active in party affairs throughout his life. From 1937-1938, he served as chairman of the Michigan Unemployment Compensation Commission and where he co-authored the Michigan Unemployment Compensation Act. In 1939, he became US Judge Eastern District, Michigan. He served until his death in 1963.

Judge Picard was active in numerous legal and service organization. He also was a gifted speaker and author of unpublished dramatic scripts and plays. One of these was "The Trial of Jesus" which Picard dramatized from a lawyer's viewpoint. His work on the trial of Jesus was a topic that he thoroughly researched. The result was serialized in the Detroit News in 1950.

Judge Frank A. Picard died February 28, 1963.