Richard Cato

Judge profile

This profile is summarized from public sources for background context only. It is not an ImmJudge evaluation.

Richard B. Cato was appointed as an Immigration Judge to begin hearing cases in October 2022. Judge Cato earned a Bachelor of Arts in 1980 from the University of Florida and a Juris Doctor in 1986 from Florida State University College of Law. From 2008 to 2022, he was a hearing officer and administrative judge with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of Hearings and Appeals, National Appeals Division. From 2001 to 2008, he worked for the State of Florida Department of Children and Families in the following roles: staff attorney (2001-2005); deputy chief legal counsel Orange County (2005-2007); and chief legal counsel Polk County (2007- 2008). Also, from 2001 to 2008, he was appointed by the State of Florida Office of the Attorney General to accept periodic case assignments as a board arbitrator for the Florida New Motor Vehicle Arbitration Board. From 1998 to 2001, he was the managing attorney for Greater Orlando Area Legal Services (GOALS). From 1989 to 1998, he was in private practice. From 1988 to 1989, he was an associate attorney with Perry & Lamb, PA. From 1986 to 1988, he was a GOALS staff attorney and office manager. Judge Cato is a member of the Florida Bar.