Governor Hochul Signs Legislation to Reduce Case Backlog in Family and Civil Courts

Legislation S.9839/A.10540 Expands the Number of Family and Civil Court Judges

Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation to reduce case backlog in family and civil courts by expanding the number of judges appointed and elected statewide.

“Civil and family courts adjudicate some of the most sensitive issues New Yorkers face, and for too long, backlogs and delays have inhibited their ability to function effectively,” Governor Hochul said. “This legislation gives our courts the tools to tackle the case backlog and carry out the fair and efficient justice system New Yorkers deserve.”

Legislation S.9839/A.10540 increases the number of family and civil court judges throughout New York State by 28. Two will be assigned to Nassau County, two will be assigned to Suffolk County, and one additional judge will be assigned in each of the following counties: Cayuga, Chenango, Cortland, Erie, Jefferson, Rensselaer, Rockland and Westchester counties. The legislation will also add 16 judges for New York City, including citywide positions that will be distributed across the five boroughs at the discretion of the Mayor of the City of New York. These reforms will help address well-documented backlogs and delays throughout the family court process and expedite proceedings. OCA is constantly monitoring where judges are needed throughout the state and will address individual communities’ needs to ensure a balanced and efficient distribution of judicial resources.