The New York State Unified Court System has announced changes to judicial rules that will require judges serving in criminal and family courts to visit a prison, jail, or other detention facility at least once each year beginning January 1, 2028.
According to court officials, the amendments to Part 17 of the Rules of the Chief Judge make New York the first state in the nation to require annual visits by all trial court judges who make sentencing or detention decisions.
The revised rule is intended to give judges a better understanding of incarceration conditions and strengthen communication among correctional facilities, incarcerated individuals, and the judiciary.
Under the new requirements, judges will have opportunities to observe a variety of areas within facilities, including intake, housing units, educational and work programs, recreation spaces, visitation areas, dining facilities, and medical and mental health services. Judges will also be able to meet with incarcerated individuals, correctional employees, administrators, and service providers.
Court officials said visits will rotate among different types of facilities, including state prisons, local jails, youth detention centers, and women’s facilities. Assignments will be based on judicial responsibilities and, when possible, include facilities in different regions of the state.
The Unified Court System said the updated rule is designed to provide judges with greater firsthand knowledge of the correctional system and the conditions experienced by those who are incarcerated.
Chief Judge Rowan D. Wilson said the rule is intended to help judges remain informed about what occurs after sentencing and better understand the effects of incarceration on individuals, families, and communities.
Chief Administrative Judge Joseph A. Zayas said the annual visits are expected to create ongoing engagement between judges and those who live and work in correctional facilities while promoting transparency and public confidence in the justice system.
The new requirements will take effect January 1, 2028.
