What does New York State Unified Court System do?

The New York State Unified Court System is the judicial branch of the New York State government, responsible for managing and operating all state courts. It serves as the primary venue for resolving legal disputes and administering justice throughout the state, handling the majority of legal matters within its courts. The court system is structured into three levels: Appellate Courts, which include the Court of Appeals and various appellate divisions; Trial Courts, which encompass eleven different types of courts such as the Supreme Court, Family Courts, and County Courts; and a geographic organization divided into four judicial departments. The Unified Court System provides a range of judicial services, including civil and criminal case resolution, family law matters, and appeals processing. It also engages in community outreach programs and initiatives focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion. The system is overseen by a Chief Judge and a Chief Administrator, supported by an administrative framework that ensures efficient court operations across New York State.