Bill > S06735

This bill modifies the New York Criminal Procedure Law to address peremptory challenges (a legal mechanism that allows attorneys to dismiss potential jurors without stating a specific reason) in cases with multiple defendants. Currently, when two or more defendants are tried jointly, they are treated as a single party for the purpose of peremptory challenges, and such challenges are only allowed if a majority of defendants agree. The bill introduces a new provision that if there is an even number of defendants and the defendants are evenly split on a peremptory challenge, the challenge must be allowed. This change is made in two sections of the criminal procedure law (sections 270.25 and 360.30), which govern jury selection in criminal trials. By allowing challenges in cases of an even split, the bill provides more flexibility for defendants in jointly tried cases to potentially shape the composition of the jury, potentially enhancing their ability to seek a fair trial. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S6735