New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A00367

Introduced
1/8/25  
Refer
1/8/25  

Caption

Provides that the court may, in its discretion, dispense with the defendant's personal appearance at an arraignment and conduct an electronic arraignment.

Summary

Bill A00367 amends the criminal procedure law to allow courts in New York to conduct electronic arraignments, dispensing with the requirement for a defendant's personal appearance. This change is contingent upon the chief administrator of the courts authorizing the use of electronic appearances and the defendant consenting to this arrangement after consulting with their counsel. The bill aims to modernize the arraignment process and improve efficiency within the judicial system.

Impact

The bill's passage would significantly alter the arraignment process in New York by enabling electronic appearances, thus potentially reducing the need for defendants to be physically present in court. This could lead to a more streamlined judicial process, particularly in light of ongoing concerns about court congestion and the logistical challenges of transporting defendants. It may also have implications for defendants' rights and the way legal counsel interacts with clients during arraignments.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill A00367 appears to be cautiously optimistic, with proponents highlighting the benefits of modernization and efficiency in the court system. However, there may be concerns regarding the implications for defendants' rights and the quality of legal representation during electronic appearances, which could lead to mixed feelings among stakeholders.

Contention

Notable points of contention include concerns about the potential impact on defendants' rights, particularly regarding their ability to consult with counsel effectively during electronic arraignments. Critics may argue that physical presence in court is essential for ensuring fair representation and understanding of the legal process, while supporters emphasize the need for modernization and efficiency in the judicial system.

Companion Bills

NY S00481

Same As Provides that the court may, in its discretion, dispense with the defendant's personal appearance at an arraignment and conduct an electronic arraignment.

Previously Filed As

NY A01328

Provides that the court may, in its discretion, dispense with the defendant's personal appearance at an arraignment and conduct an electronic arraignment.

NY S00481

Provides that the court may, in its discretion, dispense with the defendant's personal appearance at an arraignment and conduct an electronic arraignment.

NY A01425

Provides that persons charged with a parking violation shall be able to make an electronic court appearance unless a locality elects not to permit electronic appearances.

NY S01511

Provides that persons charged with a parking violation shall be able to make an electronic court appearance unless a locality elects not to permit electronic appearances.

NY S09824

Allows certain minor defendants under the age of 18 to utilize electronic appearances under certain circumstances.

NY S06656

Provides for electronic court appearance in a criminal action, anywhere in the state, at the discretion of the court having jurisdiction of the defendant; provides that the defendant must, after consultation with counsel, consent on the record; provides that the chief administrator of the courts must first approve the use of such electronic appearance.

NY A03700

Permits electronic arraignment in counties not wholly included within a city.

NY S06250

Permits electronic arraignment in counties not wholly included within a city.

NY S2966

Permits all Rhode Island courts to conduct hearings remotely and allow any party or attorney to appear by telephone or video conference, with remote appearances having the same legal effect as in-person appearances.

NY H8328

Permits all Rhode Island courts to conduct hearings remotely and allow any party or attorney to appear by telephone or video conference, with remote appearances having the same legal effect as in-person appearances.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.