Born on 27 May 1944 in Plungė region.

In 1972 graduated from the Department of Law of Vilnius University. Worked at the University as a teacher.

In 1984-1989 - Assistant Dean of the Law Department.

In 1989-1991 - employee of the Legal Department at the Supreme Council - the Reconstituent Seimas.

In 1991-1992 - Vice Prime Minister of the Republic of Lithuania.

On 23 March 1991 - Minister of Justice.

In 1992 - worked at a private Investment Agency.

Doctor of Social Sciences, docent. Author and co-author of textbooks on law for students.

Minister of Justice in the Eight Government (XXIX) since 1996.

Former member of the CPSU. Currently - member of the Homeland Union (Lithuanian Conservatives).

Speaks German and Russian languages.

Married. Has a daughter and a son.