New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A10408

Introduced
3/3/26  

Caption

Authorizes a discontinuance without an order in actions where an unrepresented party has not responded to a request for a stipulation

Impact

The implementation of A10408 could have significant implications for how civil cases are managed, particularly by facilitating faster resolutions without unnecessary encumbrances on unrepresented parties. This is particularly relevant given the growing need for reforms in the legal system to accommodate individuals who lack legal representation due to various socioeconomic factors. By allowing for an easier path to discontinuance in specific situations, this bill could improve access to justice and reduce the backlog of civil litigation in New York courts.

Summary

A10408 is a bill that seeks to amend the civil practice law and rules in New York, specifically regarding the discontinuance of actions in court. The bill allows a party asserting a claim to discontinue an action without having to go through procedural delays when the discontinuance would benefit an unrepresented party. This provision is especially relevant when the unrepresented party has not responded to a request to stipulate to a discontinuance within a reasonable timeframe. The goal of this bill is to streamline the civil procedure process and make it more accessible for individuals without legal representation.

Contention

Despite its intent to simplify legal proceedings for unrepresented parties, the bill could raise concerns among legal professionals regarding the potential for misuse. Critics may argue that allowing discontinuances without the unanimous consent of all parties could lead to unfair advantages or ethical dilemmas. Moreover, issues could arise related to ensuring that unrepresented parties have truly understood the implications of such a discontinuance, particularly when there is a risk of defendants inadvertently losing their claims or defenses without adequate legal counsel to advise them.

Companion Bills

NY S10076

Same As Allows a party asserting a claim to discontinue an action without procedural delays when the discontinuance would benefit an unrepresented party and that party has not responded to a request to stipulate to a discontinuance in a reasonable period of time.

Previously Filed As

NY S10076

Allows a party asserting a claim to discontinue an action without procedural delays when the discontinuance would benefit an unrepresented party and that party has not responded to a request to stipulate to a discontinuance in a reasonable period of time.

NY S09354

Relates to orders of protection where the respondent is a minor who resides with a parent or other legally responsible person or other party; prohibits courts from issuing an order of protection that directs a minor respondent to stay away from the home of a parent or other person legally responsible for the respondent if the respondent would not have an appropriate alternative residence; provides that such a respondent shall have the right to have a guardian ad litem appointed, if appropriate; authorizes suspended judgment in certain cases provided that the respondent participate in a batterer's education program.

NY A10556

Relates to orders of protection where the respondent is a minor who resides with a parent or other legally responsible person or other party; prohibits courts from issuing an order of protection that directs a minor respondent to stay away from the home of a parent or other person legally responsible for the respondent if the respondent would not have an appropriate alternative residence; provides that such a respondent shall have the right to have a guardian ad litem appointed, if appropriate; authorizes suspended judgment in certain cases provided that the respondent participate in a batterer's education program.

NY A08730

Relates to dispositions in family offense cases and orders of protection against a child under eighteen alleged to be a person in need of supervision or to have committed a family offense; provides that no order of protection or temporary order of protection may be issued directing a respondent who resides with a parent, other person legally responsible or other party to stay away from the home of such individual if the effect of such order would leave the respondent without an appropriate alternative residence; relates to the right of a respondent under the age of eighteen to have a guardian ad litem appointed in a family offense proceeding in which the petitioner is a parent or other person legally responsible for the respondent.

NY S07475

Allows an unrepresented party to transmit legal filings in eviction proceedings electronically; eliminates certain verification or notarization requirements.

NY S10140

Allows an unrepresented party to transmit legal filings in eviction proceedings electronically; eliminates certain verification or notarization requirements.

NY A09327

Authorizes crisis responders assisting veterans and first responders in mental health emergencies to display a green flashing light.

NY A08299

Sets the effectiveness and duration of automatic orders in matrimonial actions.

NY S08270

Sets the effectiveness and duration of automatic orders in matrimonial actions.

NY SR4

An action whereby a bill has been passed or defeated may not be rescinded without the concurrence of 27 Members.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.