Over the gamut of family law cases in which courts and practitioners are involved, the mental health of the litigants is often at issue whether by general allegation – particularly in matters of contested custody – but sometimes more specifically where there is an actual mental health history. But, while allegations made by one litigant … Continued
Equitable Distribution Wife’s refusal to sell couple’s debt-ridden business is wasteful dissipation Angello v. Angello, 237 A.D.3d 1318 (3d Dep’t 2025) The parties had an organic grocery distribution company, which was primarily operated by the husband, that created over $995,000 in debt. In 2018, the husband thought he had found a lifeline when the couple received … Continued
Introduction The equitable division of pension benefits in matrimonial matters is a complex and often litigated issue. The recent decision in A.F. v. D.F., 2025 N.Y. Slip Op. 50160(U), issued by Justice Lorintz of Nassau County, highlights the risks associated with improper drafting and execution of a domestic relations order (DRO). The case illustrates critical errors … Continued
Honorable Patria Frias-Colón is currently assigned to the Kings County Supreme Court, Civil Term. She is Co-Chair of the Court Modernization Action Committee and a member of the Court’s Advisory Committee on Artificial Intelligence and the Courts. Court Modernization Action Committee (CMAC) The CMAC is a working group of stakeholders from both inside and outside … Continued
On September 4-6, 2024, the Surrogates Association held its educational seminar in Lake George, NY. Here, the Association’s president, Hon. Vincent Versaci, Surrogate, Schenectady County, addresses the audience. CLE Program – “How to Avoid Reversals: Practical Tips from Justices of the Appellate Divisions” (l-r): Hon. Donald A. Greenwood (AD4); Hon. Tracey A. Bannister (AD4); Hon. Eddie J. McShan (AD3); Hon Lourdes M. Ventura (AD2); Hon. … Continued
Dear Judicial Section Members, Congratulations to our newly elected and appointed judges and those elevated to higher judicial positions. For new judges, we are proud to welcome our newest colleagues to our distinguished ranks. I am thrilled to report that our Section concluded 2024 on a high note by hosting two virtual CLE programs that … Continued
Congratulations to Hon. Hector D. LaSalle, Presiding Justice, Appellate Division, Second Department, who was honored by the Brooklyn Women’s Bar Association at their Hispanic Heritage Month event on October 1, 2024. Presiding Justice Hon. Hector D. LaSalle gives remarks at the BWBA Hispanic Heritage Month event on October 1, 2024 Congratulations to Hon. Hector D. LaSalle, Presiding Justice, Appellate … Continued
Judicial Section Presiding Member Hon. Tanya R. Kennedy welcomed everyone to the Section’s Centennial Celebration, which took place on Friday, January 17, 2025, at the New York Hilton Midtown. Attended by more than 290 individuals, this Reception & Luncheon was the perfect opportunity to reflect on the Section’s history, celebrate its leaders, and renew its … Continued
Appellate Term Hon. Joseph R. Conway Congratulations to Hon. Joseph R. Conway, who was appointed to the Appellate Term of the Supreme Court, Second Department, Ninth and Tenth Judicial Districts on October 1, 2024. Administrative Judge and Statewide Judicial Appointments Hon. Suzanne J. Adams Administrative Judge, New York County Supreme Court – Civil Term Congratulations to Hon. … Continued
Honorable Javier E. Vargas is a Judge of the Court of Claims and serves as Treasurer of the Latino Judges Association and as Secretary to the Judicial Division of the Hispanic National Bar Association. In 2025, the Latino Judges Association (LJA) proudly commemorates its 40th anniversary, marking four decades of unwavering commitment to progress, advocacy and representation … Continued