Joseph Zayas named New York’s Chief Administrative Judge of the Court System

Joseph Zayas, a leading figure in the New York State Judiciary, has made history by being appointed as the state’s first Latino Chief Administrative Judge. The landmark announcement was made by Chief Judge Rowan Wilson, who praised Judge Zayas for his integrity, hard work, and deep knowledge of the law and court system on Thursday.

“Judge Zayas has a stellar reputation for his keen judgment, hard work, integrity and deep knowledge of both the law and the complex workings of the New York State court system,” Chief Judge Wilson said.

“He has demonstrated exceptional leadership and the highest ethical standards over the course of his distinguished judicial career. He is a forward-thinking, hands-on manager as proven throughout his tenure as Administrative Judge for Criminal Matters in Queens County, where he implemented numerous reforms and programs to improve the delivery of justice.”

This monumental appointment comes at the heels of Judge Tamiko Amaker’s term as acting Chief Administrative Judge since Dec. 2022. Judge Zayas will now be responsible for the daily administration and operation of the court system, overseeing the performance and efficiency of every trial court in the state.

In this pivotal role, he will administer a $3.3 billion budget, supervise 3,600 state and locally paid judges, and manage nearly 15,000 non-judicial employees spread across over 300 courthouses in 62 counties.

“I am honored and excited for the opportunity to serve alongside Chief Judge Wilson in leading the New York State court system as we seek targeted, viable solutions to address the myriad issues that today confront our courts and justice system,” Zayas said. “I look forward–with the collective efforts of our talented, hardworking court administrators, judges and court…