Meet the candidates: Brooklyn’s upcoming judicial elections

As Brooklyn residents prepare to cast their ballots in the general elections next Tuesday, the judicial races are shaping up to be some of the most compelling. Though Brooklyn is predominantly Democratic, the election slate reveals several high-stakes races that could set a precedent for the borough’s legal system.

Brooklyn residents gearing up for the upcoming judicial elections should be aware of the courts they’ll be voting for and the term lengths for each elected position. 

The Civil Court handles civil cases involving sums up to $25,000 and offers a term of 10 years for the elected judge. The Surrogate Court, responsible for probate and estate issues, has a term length of 14 years for the position. The Supreme Court in the 2nd Judicial District handles major civil and criminal cases, including felonies and large civil disputes, with a 14-year term for the judge. 

A Crowded Field in the Supreme Court

The contest drawing the most attention is for justice of the Supreme Court, Second Judicial District. With six spots to fill and seven candidates on the ballot, it’s the only race featuring a Republican contender, Timothy J. Peterson. He’s up against six Democratic incumbents who also appear on the Republican line, adding another layer of complexity to the race.

Hon. Rachel E. Freier, currently an acting Supreme Court justice, is the first Hasidic woman to hold this role. Appointed in January 2023, she previously served in the Kings County Civil Court beginning in 2016.

Hon. Sharon A. B. Clarke brings more than 30 years of legal experience to the race. Elected in 2014, she has served in Criminal, Family and Civil Courts and was elevated to acting justice of the Supreme Court in 2022. Her past roles include deputy general counsel of the New York State Division of Human Rights.

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