NY A04602

Allows defendants in justice courts charged with misdemeanors or felonies to elect to have their case heard only by a judge or justice admitted to practice law in New York State

Requires the election to be made in writing using a form prescribed by the chief administrator of the courts, filed no later than completion of the first appearance involving motions

Non-attorney judges may still handle preliminary matters including arraignment, plea entry, bail setting, counsel assignment, preliminary hearings, temporary orders of protection, and license suspensions

Directs the chief administrator to create rules ensuring defendants are timely advised of this election right and that cases are reassigned with minimum delay and burden

Takes effect 120 days after becoming law, with immediate authority to develop necessary implementing rules and regulations