Bill > S00714

This bill amends the New York Judiciary Law to modify the rules around judicial recusal, specifically focusing on Court of Appeals judges. Currently, most judges are required to provide a written explanation for their recusal from a case, except when the reason might cause personal embarrassment. The bill adds a new provision specifically for Court of Appeals judges, stating that when a Court of Appeals judge recuses themselves from a case, a replacement judge will be selected through a systematic process: the replacement will be chosen on a rotating basis from the next available Appellate Division judge, with selection based on seniority. This means that if a Court of Appeals judge cannot participate in a case, another judge from the Appellate Division will be brought in to fill their role, following a predetermined order based on how long they have served. The bill aims to create a clear, predictable method for replacing recused judges at the highest level of the state court system, ensuring continuity and fairness in judicial proceedings. The law will take effect 30 days after it is signed.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S714