Ahead of Upcoming Vacancy on the Court of Appeals, Commission on Judicial Nomination to Hold Open Discussion About the Nomination Process in Albany
In an effort to demystify the selection process for Judges of New York’s highest court, the Court of Appeals, the Commission on Judicial Nomination will host an informational meeting on Monday, July 13, 2026, from 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM, at the New York State Bar Association, 1 Elk Street, Albany, New York 12207.
Under the Constitution of the State of New York, the Commission on Judicial Nomination is entrusted with the responsibility for evaluating, and then recommending to the Governor, candidates to fill vacancies on the Court of Appeals. The Commission vigorously seeks out, carefully evaluates, and then recommends to the Governor well-qualified candidates from the extraordinary, diverse community of lawyers admitted to practice in New York State for at least ten years.
On February 10, 2027, a vacancy will exist on the Court due to the expiration of the term of office of Senior Associate Judge Jenny Rivera. As part of the Commission’s process of identifying and recommending candidates to fill vacancies on the Court, the Commission conducts meetings to discuss the requirements for the position and the Commission’s procedures and rules for submitting recommendations of qualified candidates. The meetings are open to the public, and all are encouraged to attend and express their views (orally or in writing) about community needs, the general qualifications for judicial office, and the nominating process.
Elizabeth R. Fine, the Chair of the Commission, will host the informational meeting on July 13. She will discuss the process of applying to join the Court of Appeals with former Associate Judges Howard A. Levine and Leslie Stein. Other scheduled speakers and panelists include:
Michal J. Hutter, Commissioner, Commission on Judicial Nomination
Paul N. Samuels, Commissioner, Commission on Judicial Nomination
Lorraine R. Silverman, President, Albany County Bar Association
Henry M. Greenberg, Counsel, Commission on Judicial Nomination