From 1842 to 1844, he studied in Paris, where he acquired a working knowledge of French and several other languages.

[3] He was confirmed by the United States Senate on February 27, 1851, and received his commission the same day.

[3] Hoffman's judicial service terminated on August 9, 1891, due to his death in San Francisco.

[3] At the time of his death, he was the last federal judge in active service to have been appointed by President Fillmore, and the longest-serving on the bench.

[4] He was interred at Mount Tamalpais Cemetery in San Rafael, California.