Instructions for making phone and video court appearances:
Virtual Court Appearances for the Public
Our Mission
To further access to justice in all NY State Courts for people of all backgrounds, incomes, and abilities by using every resource, including pro bono programs, self-help services, and technological tools, and by securing stable and adequate non-profit and government funding for civil and criminal legal services programs.
Law Day Report 2025
Law Day, celebrated annually in the month of May, offers us the opportunity to reflect on and discuss the rule of law and its role in our society. Each year, Law Day is centered around a different theme to help guide these discussions. In recognition of this important tradition, the Unified Court System’s Office for Justice Initiatives, led by Deputy Chief Administrative Judge Edwina G. Richardson, issues a report focusing on the current year's Law Day theme.
We are pleased share our 2025 Law Day Report!
Guided by the American Bar Association’s Law Day theme, "The Constitution's Promise: Out of Many, One," this year's report spotlights ways that the Office for Justice Initiatives brings this promise to life. From resources that increase court accessibility to the Law Day art contest to educational programs, the Office for Justice Initiatives works in many ways to pursue the Constitution’s promise.
We invite you to review this report and share any questions or feedback with the Office for Justice Initiatives at [email protected].
Administration
Deputy Chief Administrative Judge for Justice Initiatives
Hon. Edwina G. Richardson
Chief of Staff
Michelle Smith, Esq.
Deputy Chief of Staff
Rosemary Martinez-Borges, Esq.
Director, Access to Justice Division
Lisa M. Zayas, Esq.