The Judiciary Committee of the LGBT Bar Association of Greater New York (LGBT Bar NY) interviews judicial candidates for local and state elections to determine if their views and objectives align with LGBT Bar NY’s mission and values. Candidates are eligible to receive the following ratings: "Highly Approved," "Approved," "Not Approved," or "Failed to Appear."
In order to obtain an "Approved" rating, the Panel must be satisfied that the candidate, once on the bench, will: 1) demonstrate a commitment to the equality of rights for all lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people; 2) possess the integrity, intellect, experience, and temperament required of judicial office; and 3) perform judicial duties without bias or prejudice against or in favor of any person and will not permit discrimination against any minority in their courtroom.
In order to obtain a rating of "Highly Approved," the candidate must possess all of the characteristics required for an "Approved" rating to an outstanding degree, and in addition must have demonstrated a commitment to the equality of rights for all lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people.
Sample Judicial Ratings – 2023 General Election
