Justices Ryba and Ally appointed as judicial co-chairs to advance access to justice

Chief Judge Rowan Wilson announced last week that he has appointed Hon. Christina Ryba and Hon. Shahabuddeen Ally as judicial co-chairs of the Permanent Commission on Access to Justice, aiming to enhance civil legal support for low-income New Yorkers and unrepresented litigants. 

Together with commission founder Helaine Barnett, Justices Ryba and Ally will lead a team of legal professionals, scholars and other experts dedicated to closing the justice gap in New York.

“The work of the commission is integral to the Court System’s mission,” said Chief Judge Wilson. “Beyond a core principle of the rule of law, access to justice is an essential lifeline, whether for the tenant facing eviction or the person embroiled in litigation with predatory lenders, among the many others throughout our State in dire need of civil legal representation and assistance.”

Chief Administrative Judge Joseph A. Zayas and First Deputy Chief Administrative Judge Norman St. George lauded the appointments, recognizing Justices Ryba and Ally as longtime advocates for expanding civil legal services. Deputy Chief Administrative Judge for Justice Initiatives Edwina G. Richardson, an ex officio member of the commission, praised their expertise and passion, which contribute to the commission’s goal of addressing unmet civil legal needs.

“I’m grateful to Chief Judge Wilson for the appointment, which will allow me to collaborate with Deputy Chief Administrative Judge Edwina Richardson, Helaine Barnett and Judge Ally in efforts to help New Yorkers by developing policies and initiatives that will expand much-needed access to legal services,” Justice Ryba said.

“I am thankful to Chief Judge Rowan Wilson, Chief Administrative Judge…