Abstract: A latch that can be used as a mechanical aid for insertion/extraction of a circuit pack into/from a slot in an equipment cabinet. In an example embodiment, a handle of the latch contains a spring-biased locking lever that automatically locks the latch in the closed position when the pawl of the latch engages the keeper. Some embodiments may include an integrated micro-switch that enables a graceful shutdown of the circuit pack, e.g., to avoid an extraction without a proper power-down. At least some embodiments of the latch may also have one or more of the following beneficial characteristics: (i) a relatively large and/or variable leverage ratio; (ii) a relatively small footprint on the faceplate of the circuit pack; (iii) a fully symmetric design with or without the integrated micro-switch; and (iv) enhanced electromagnetic compatibility with the use of an electrically conducting latch base and/or gasket.