Makes the city court judges in the city of Norwich full-time positions

Title of bill

An act to amend the uniform city court act and chapter 493 of the laws of 2006, amending the uniform city court act and the judiciary law relating to judges of city courts, in relation to making the city court judges in the city of Norwich full-time positions

Purpose or general idea of bill

Provides for the full-time position of judge of the city court of Norwich.

Existing law

Provides for one part-time (50%) judge for the city of Norwich.

Justification

Presently, the City Court of Norwich is overburdened. Over the last two years, the overall caseload of the court has increased by 16%, which has affected not only the abilities of the court to operate efficiently in providing justice but also the community.

The Norwich City Court judge was supposed to play an essential role in the community-driven Hub Drug Court of Chenango County. The Hub Drug Court has failed to benefit the community because an essential piece is missing: Norwich City Court Judge. Making the City Court position full time would not only remedy the community's missing link but also offer assistance to other courts such as the Chenango County Family Court which now has the highest caseload in the state within the small county category. Currently, none of this is possible with a part-time judge.

Prior legislative history

Same as S.3217 of 2007

Fiscal implications

To be determined.

Effective date

This act shall take effect immediately.