Senate Panel Nominates Tanya Ettinger and Jessica Wilcox for Family Court Judgeships

The recent meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Judiciary highlighted the critical importance of family court in New York's judicial system, as two nominees, Tanya Ettinger and Jessica Wilcox, presented their qualifications for interim family court judge positions. Both nominees emphasized their extensive experience and commitment to serving families in need, reflecting the court's significant role in addressing issues that can profoundly affect the lives of children and families.

Tanya Ettinger, who has dedicated 16 years to Monroe County Family Court, shared her journey from representing children at the Legal Aid Society to serving as a confidential court attorney for Judge Fatima Reid. She underscored the life-altering impact of family court decisions and expressed her dedication to ensuring that all individuals are heard and respected within the legal process. Ettinger also highlighted her involvement in community programs aimed at enhancing access to justice and support for families.

Jessica Wilcox, with 25 years of legal experience, including a decade in private practice, also spoke to the importance of compassion in family court. She noted her clerkship under various judges, which provided her with a diverse understanding of the judicial process. Wilcox acknowledged the challenges faced by families in court, particularly those lacking resources, and expressed her desire to expedite case resolutions to better serve the community.

Senators raised concerns about the under-resourced nature of family courts and the significant backlogs affecting timely justice. Both nominees agreed on the need for increased resources and proposed strategies to improve case management and accessibility. Ettinger emphasized the importance of community involvement in the court system, while Wilcox suggested more efficient scheduling of trial dates to reduce delays.

The committee's discussions underscored the vital role family court plays in the lives of New Yorkers, particularly those facing financial and emotional hardships. As the nominations move forward, the focus remains on ensuring that the court system is equipped to provide fair and timely resolutions for families in need. The outcomes of this meeting reflect a commitment to enhancing the judicial experience for all, particularly the most vulnerable members of the community.