Magistrate Judge Kaplan was born in Morristown, New Jersey. He is a 1978 graduate of Vanderbilt University (B.A., political science), and a 1981 graduate of Southern Methodist University School of Law (J.D.).
Following law school, Judge Kaplan clerked for the Texas Court of Appeals, Fifth District of Texas. Judge Kaplan then entered private practice where, from 1982 to 1991, he specialized in civil trials and appeals. From 1991 to 1992, he served as a Justice on the Texas Court of Appeals, Fifth District, and, from 1993 to 1994, he was a partner with the law firm of Johnston & Budner, P.C.
From 1983 to 1987, Judge Kaplan was also an Instructor at Southern Methodist University School of Law.
Judge Kaplan was appointed to be one of the Northern District of Texas’ Magistrate Judges in 1994. His chambers were in Dallas. Judge Kaplan retired in 2012.