Our Mission
The goal of the Society is to collect and preserve New York State’s legal history, and to showcase the state’s connection to our founding fathers and their contributions to the U.S. and New York State constitutions and the nation’s developing democracy.
Our Latest Publication
Now On Sale! Judith S. Kaye In Her Own Words: Reflections on Life and the Law, with Selected Judicial Opinions and Articles. An autobiography and selected writings by Judith S. Kaye, former Chief Judge of New York’s highest court, the Court of Appeals.
New Judicial Notice Issue
Our latest issue of Judicial Notice is dedicated to the history of justice for Native American peoples in NYS. This publication is a members-exclusive — join the Society or renew your membership today to obtain your copy!
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Recent Blog Posts
Rebecca Salome Foster “The Tombs Angel” (1848-1902)
This blog article was adapted from the display surrounding the monument to Rebecca Salome Foster in the rotunda at the New York County Courthouse, … More Rebecca Salome Foster “The Tombs Angel” (1848-1902) »
The Braschi Breakthrough: 30 Years Later, Looking Back on the Relationship Recognition Landmark
On June 3, 2019, The Richard C. Failla LGBTQ Commission of the New York Courts commemorated the 30th anniversary of the New York Court … More The Braschi Breakthrough: 30 Years Later, Looking Back on the Relationship Recognition Landmark »
Excerpt from People v. Croswell: Alexander Hamilton and the Transformation of the Common Law of Libel
The theme for Law Day 2019 is Free Speech, Free Press, Free Society, and early New York cases tested some of the protections of … More Excerpt from People v. Croswell: Alexander Hamilton and the Transformation of the Common Law of Libel »