Early Life and Education:
John F. Moulds III was born in 1938 in Kansas City, Missouri, eventually settling in Sacramento, California, at the age of 4. He graduated from El Camino High School and, after a brief tenure at Stanford University cut short by a family emergency, completed his B.A. with honors at California State University, Sacramento. Moulds then attended Boalt Hall School of Law (UC Berkeley), where he met his wife, Elizabeth (Betty) Fry, and engaged in early civil rights work.

Legal Career and Advocacy:
Moulds began his legal career with California Rural Legal Assistance (CRLA) and later co-founded the law firm Blackmon, Isenberg & Moulds. He practiced in various fields, including administrative and election law, criminal defense, personal injury, and civil rights. Recognized for his empathy and listening skills, Moulds was a respected attorney who often tackled difficult cases with a unique blend of advocacy and respect for court proceedings.

Notable Cases:

• Pit River Indian Tribe Case (early 1970s): Moulds represented members of the Pit River Indian tribe charged with assaulting federal officers during a land dispute. His effective representation resulted in his client’s acquittal, highlighting his nuanced advocacy for indigenous rights during contentious times.
• Sandra Good and Susan Murphy Trial: Appointed alongside William B. Shubb, Moulds represented followers of Charles Manson charged with mailing threatening communications. Despite challenging circumstances, Moulds demonstrated patience and adherence to legal duty, though his client was ultimately convicted.

Civil Rights and Supreme Court Victories:
Moulds also made significant contributions to civil rights, including a successful challenge before the California Supreme Court in Zeilenga v. Nelson (1971), striking down a residency requirement for candidates, which broadened the democratic process.

Judicial Career:
Appointed as a Magistrate Judge in the Eastern District of California in 1983, Moulds quickly distinguished himself by developing efficient processes for handling prisoner civil rights and habeas cases. His work became a national model, earning him the nickname “Dean of the Magistrate Judge bench.” Moulds served the district with great distinction for thirty years before retiring.

Community Engagement and Legacy:
Beyond the bench, Moulds contributed to the community through involvement in Democratic Party politics and the Sacramento City and County Human Relations Commission. He played an instrumental role in selecting public art for the new Eastern District courthouse, ensuring a legacy of both legal and cultural significance.

Conclusion:
Judge John F. Moulds III’s career was marked by a steadfast dedication to justice, empathy, and public service. His contributions to civil rights law and his innovative approaches to judicial practice left a lasting impact on the Eastern District of California and the broader legal community. His legacy is felt not only in the landmark cases he was involved with but also in his compassionate approach to the law and mentorship to those who followed in his footsteps. Judge Moulds passed away on May 29, 2020, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, justice, and humanity.