Queens Civil Court Judge was ordered removed on Friday by the New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct after the oversight body concluded the judge continued to practice law while serving on the bench. The commission also found the judge allowed a felon‑status paralegal to manage his office, mishandled client funds, and failed to file required financial disclosures.
The commission’s findings detail that the judge maintained an active law practice despite his judicial duties, a direct violation of judicial conduct rules. In addition, the judge permitted a paralegal with a felony record to oversee the operations of his courtroom office, a breach of the standards that prohibit employing individuals whose criminal background disqualifies them from legal support roles.
Financial improprieties were also cited. The commission determined the judge mishandled money belonging to clients, compromising the fiduciary responsibilities expected of a judge. Moreover, the judge ignored mandatory financial disclosure requirements, neglecting to provide the state with the transparency required of members of the judiciary.
The New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct holds the authority to investigate, discipline, and, when warranted, remove judges for ethical violations. This action against the Queens Civil Court judge represents the latest enforcement of those powers in the borough. The commission’s decision underscores its commitment to upholding the integrity of the state’s judicial system and ensuring that judges adhere strictly to the conduct standards that govern their professional and personal responsibilities.