Bill > S02674

This bill clarifies and expands the provisions for protective orders related to jury information in criminal proceedings. Specifically, the bill modifies existing criminal procedure law to allow courts to issue protective orders for jurors' names and addresses under broader circumstances. The court can now issue such an order upon finding "good cause to believe that a threat to the safety or integrity of the jury exists," which can be initiated by either party, an affected person, or the court itself. When determining whether good cause exists, the court may consider three key factors: (1) whether the defendant or their associates have previously bribed, tampered with, harassed, or attempted to physically injure jurors in this or other criminal proceedings; (2) the seriousness of the criminal charges, including whether the defendant is alleged to be part of a large-scale criminal enterprise; and (3) the extent of pretrial publicity surrounding the case. The protective order would restrict disclosure of juror names and addresses to anyone except the counsel for the parties involved, with the aim of protecting jurors from potential intimidation or interference. The bill is designed to enhance jury safety and maintain the integrity of the judicial process.

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S2674