Legislation signed by Governor Kathy Hochul Wednesday aims to reduce the backlog of cases in family and civil courts across the state, including one in the Finger Lakes.
“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.”
Under the legislation, 28 new judges are being added to the state’s court system.
Cayuga County, along with Chenango, Cortland, Erie, Jefferson, Rensselaer, Rockland, and Westchester Counties, will each have one new judge assigned to them. Nassau and Suffolk Counties will each receive two additional judges. 16 judges will be added to New York City.
New York State Court of Appeals Chief Judge Rowan Wilson said, “Addressing the needs of families in distress is one of the highest priorities of the New York State Unified Court System, and we applaud Governor Hochul and the Legislature for their leadership on this issue. Creating these new judgeships across the State, together with the augmentation of resources required to serve our families, will greatly enhance our ongoing efforts to improve the lives of children and families and to ensure that individuals appearing in Family Court receive the fair, thoughtful and expeditious delivery of justice that they deserve.”
It’s hoped that these additions will address backlogs and delays in the court system and expedite proceedings.
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