Felder Fights To Keep Family Court Open Until Midnight Included In Budget

Senator Simcha Felder (D-Brooklyn) is pleased to announce that the Senate One-House Budget resolution included establishing a nighttime Family Court program, requiring New York City Family Court to remain open until midnight at least one day a week. This has been a priority for Senator Felder and is seen as a major step in helping address Family Court’s history of dysfunction and delays. The State Senate passed the One-House Budget resolution on Monday, March 14. 

 “I am delighted to see my legislation included in the Senate budget resolution and I thank my colleagues for their support of this important initiative,” said Senator Felder. “Offering a nighttime Family Court would help remove a significant burden for many children and families who are already navigating a process that can be prolonged and terrifying.” 

Family Court specializes in handling cases involving children and families, such as child custody, juvenile delinquency, domestic violence, child abuse and neglect. Sadly, Family Courts are often overburdened and under-resourced, despite handling some of the most vulnerable people who enter the justice system. While many courts in New York City remain open in the evenings and some are open until 1:00am, Family Courts close at 5:00pm, making it difficult for many working families. 

“For parents and children who appear in Family Court, the stakes could not be higher, and this important initiative would help address a great disparity for New Yorkers who attend Family Court. It doesn’t make sense that other courts are open until 1:00am, while children and families in desperate need aren’t given the same care in Family Court. Over the next few weeks, I will work with my colleagues in government to ensure this important initiative is included in the Enacted State Budget,” concluded Senator Felder.