Introduction to New York’s Court Officers
The latest crop of court officers took the oath of office Wednesday at a ceremony in Brooklyn.
Diverse Backgrounds, Common Purpose
The latest class of recruits to New York’s court officer corps comes from a wide range of backgrounds and interest areas–animal rescue, mixed martial arts, acting. But those 216 newly minted officers, who were sworn into service in a Wednesday ceremony, are going on to serve a common purpose: maintaining order and safety in New York’s state courthouses.
The Importance of Court Officers
“The folks that are coming to our courthouses, sometimes the day that they arrive might be the worst day of their life,” Chief Administrative Judge Joseph Zayas said during remarks to the new class at a ceremony held at the Christian Cultural Center in Brooklyn’s Starrett City section. “And I recognize that you’re not social workers…but your simple act of kindness and your friendliness and your respect can go a long way in establishing the public’s trust in our justice system.”
Ceremony and Oath of Office
Court officials who took the stage for the ceremony included First Deputy Chief Administrative Judge Norman St. George, who administered the oath of office to the new class. “Our courts simply cannot and will not operate without you,” St. George said during his remarks. “You make justice possible. You make the rule of law in our courts possible.” From left, in foreground: Chief Administrative Judge Joseph Zayas, First Deputy Chief Administrative Judge Norman St. George, Deputy Chief Administrative Judge for New York City Courts Adam Silvera and New York City Criminal Court Administrative Judge Tamiko Amaker.
Assignment and Role
The new crop of court officers joins the ranks of the more-than 4,000 court officers and 2,000 non-uniformed peace officers. They will be assigned to courthouses around the five boroughs, in Nassau and Suffolk counties, and counties throughout the Hudson River Valley. “Most lawyers never get to set foot in a courtroom, but you will do that every day,” Zayas said during his remarks.
Conclusion
The swearing-in of the new court officers marks an important milestone in the administration of justice in New York. As they begin their duties, they will play a critical role in maintaining order and safety in the state’s courthouses, and their actions will help to establish the public’s trust in the justice system.
FAQs
Q: How many new court officers were sworn into service?
A: 216 new court officers were sworn into service.
Q: What is the role of court officers in New York’s state courthouses?
A: Court officers are responsible for maintaining order and safety in the courthouses.
Q: Where will the new court officers be assigned?
A: The new court officers will be assigned to courthouses around the five boroughs, in Nassau and Suffolk counties, and counties throughout the Hudson River Valley.
