Queens, New York – On August 7, 2026, the New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct ordered the removal of a Queens Civil Court judge after concluding that the judge had illegally practiced law, allowed a felon paralegal to run his office, mishandled client funds, and repeatedly failed to file required financial disclosures.
The commission’s investigation determined that the judge continued to provide legal services after assuming the bench, a direct violation of state rules that prohibit sitting judges from practicing law. In addition, the investigation found that a paralegal with a felony record was given authority to manage the judge’s law office, an arrangement that contravenes regulations governing the conduct of judicial staff.
Financial misconduct was also documented. The commission reported that client funds entrusted to the judge’s office were not handled in accordance with fiduciary standards, and that the judge did not submit the financial disclosure statements mandated for all New York judges. These disclosures are intended to provide transparency regarding a judge’s financial interests and to prevent conflicts of interest.
New York law requires judges to abstain from any private legal practice and to adhere to strict financial reporting obligations. Failure to meet these standards can result in disciplinary action, up to and including removal from the bench, as demonstrated in this case.
The commission’s order reflects the application of those statutes and regulations. By removing the judge, the oversight body seeks to enforce compliance with the ethical and procedural rules that govern the state’s judiciary. The decision underscores the mechanisms in place to address violations by members of the bench and to maintain the integrity of the court system.