June 25 Judicial Democratic Primary Elections

On June 25, 2019, Brooklyners who are registered Democrats will have the opportunity to vote in two or three elections (depending on where they live) for judges. These judges will be ruling on important issues such as lawsuits and handling estates of the deceased. We know that there generally is not much information about judicial candidates so, in the interest of informing people as much as possible, we have put together this page.

Our friends at New Kings Democrats have put together a great voter guide on the three judicial races taking place in Brooklyn this year. Unfortunately, some of the candidates declined to participate. But for those who did, there are some great summaries of the candidates and in-depth questionnaires that the candidates responded to.

We highly recommend checking out their voter guide.

Various organizations of lawyers rate judicial candidates on their fitness to be a judge. It is optional for any judicial candidate to submit themselves to these organizations. Below we will include ratings from the Kings County Democratic Committee (KCDC) judicial screening panel, the Brooklyn Bar Association, and New York City Bar Association, and LeGaL the LGBT Bar Association of New York.

Surrogate Court

The Surrogate’s Court hears cases involving affairs of the deceased, including the probate of wills (such as transferring a property’s title from the person who has died to the person’s heirs), paying of any taxes owed by the deceased person, determining the validity of a will, or settling any disputes related to a will. The Court also handles family trusts, adoptions, and guardianships. Surrogate Court judges serve a term of 14 years.

Civil Court

The Civil Court handles lawsuits up to $25,000 and small claims of up to $5,000. Sometimes Civil Court judges are elevated to Supreme Court and can serve as acting Supreme Court judges for many years. Civil Court judges serve a term of 10 years.

Countywide Civil Court

Anyone living in Brooklyn can vote in the countywide civil court race. 

6th Municipal District Civil Court

Only those living inside the 6th municipal court district in Brooklyn can vote in this race.

Map of the 6th Municipal Court District

Find out what districts you are in

Resources

New Kings Democrats 2019 Judicial Primary Voter Guide

New York City Bar Association Ratings

LeGaL Announces Judicial Ratings for 2019 Primaries

Kings County Democratic Committee judicial screening panel and Brooklyn Bar Association ratings obtained via e-mail correspondence.