New York remains a work in progress when it comes to developing an inclusive judiciary. The New York Unified Court System estimates that about 15% of the state’s judges are Black, while 10% are Hispanic or Latino – slightly increased from three years ago.

Efforts such as an April 24 continuing legal education seminar organized by the Franklin H. Williams Judicial Commission are helping guide the way to enduring change.

The day-long CLE at the University of Buffalo School of Law brings together judges from across the state, along with attorneys, political leaders, court officials and educators, to discuss “Everything You Need to Know About Becoming a Judge.”

Thomas J. Garry, managing partner of the Harris Beach Long Island office and a Franklin Williams Commissioner, will provide welcoming remarks and moderate a panel providing an overview of election law and associated ethical requirements for attorneys. Tom has served on the Commission since 2018.

“The Commission is committed to educating qualified prospective candidates of all backgrounds in all parts of the state on what it takes to ascend to the bench,” Tom. “A more diverse judiciary moves us to greater fairness in the court system, and our work in this area is never done.”

Additional discussions scheduled include how to secure a pipeline for judicial diversity outside of New York City, the role of family court, the appointment process for the New York Court of Claims and individual sessions on getting nominated for state Supreme Court and village, town, county, city and family court openings. Click here to register or for more information.

The Franklin H. Williams Commission, founded in 1988, promotes racial and ethnic fairness in the courts through education and policy recommendations. Members include judges, lawyers and court administrators who serve at the appointment of the state’s Chief Judge.