Bill > A00998

This bill establishes strict guidelines for judicial decision-making timeliness in New York, requiring judges to render decisions on motions and non-jury verdicts within nine months of the matter being fully submitted. If a judge fails to meet this deadline, it will be considered judicial misconduct, and the court clerk must refer such cases to the judicial commission for potential disciplinary action. The bill mandates that if a judge has more than five untimely decisions, they will be removed from office, and if a decision is not rendered within two years, automatic removal will occur. The legislation provides some flexibility, allowing judges to be excused for extraordinary circumstances or if they request a transfer of the case to another judge who can decide it more quickly. Notably, the bill includes a provision for currently pending cases, giving judges six months to render decisions after the law's effective date (January 1, 2027), with the same penalties applying if they fail to do so. The bill aims to improve judicial efficiency and accountability by creating clear consequences for prolonged judicial inaction.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A998