New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S06735

Introduced
3/21/25  

Caption

Provides that if there is a tie when there is an even number of defendants, a peremptory challenge must be allowed.

Impact

By adjusting how peremptory challenges are processed in cases involving multiple defendants, S06735 seeks to create more consistency and efficiency in the legal system. With the new provision that requires a majority agreement from the defending parties for a challenge to be accepted, the bill aims to reduce confusion and potential delays during trial. The implications of this change could optimize court resources and foster a smoother judicial process, possibly easing the burden on courts dealing with joint trials.

Summary

Bill S06735 aims to amend the criminal procedure law regarding peremptory challenges during joint trial proceedings. The legislation specifies that when two or more defendants are tried together, the total number of peremptory challenges allowed is not multiplied by the number of defendants; instead, they are treated as a single party. This standardized approach is intended to streamline the trial process, ensuring that defendants can still exercise their right to challenge jurors without complicating the proceedings due to an increased number of challenges.

Contention

One of the notable points of contention surrounding Bill S06735 is the balance between ensuring a fair trial and maintaining an orderly court process. Critics may argue that reducing the number of challenges available for defendants could compromise their ability to secure impartial juries, while supporters believe that the risks posed by excessive challenges can be detrimental to the efficiency of court operations. The dialogue around this bill suggests a tension between safeguarding defendants' rights and the necessity of a streamlined legal process.

Companion Bills

NY A00934

Same As Provides that if there is a tie when there is an even number of defendants, a peremptory challenge must be allowed.

Previously Filed As

NY A10670

Provides that if there is a tie when there is an even number of defendants, a peremptory challenge must be allowed.

NY S00282

Repeals law permitting peremptory challenges of trial jurors.

NY A07181

Repeals law permitting peremptory challenges of trial jurors.

NY S00229

Authorizes a religious corporation to sell real property where consideration paid therefor and fair market value thereof is less than $200,000, and mortgage real property when such mortgage secures debt of less than $200,000, without leave of supreme court.

NY S08951

Requires signage on state highways designating where there is a zero-emission charging and refueling station that is open and available to the public within three miles of an exit or off-ramp.

NY A10637

Requires signage on state highways designating where there is a zero-emission charging and refueling station that is open and available to the public within three miles of an exit or off-ramp.

NY S04812

Provides for the return of fines, restitution and reparation payments and any interest thereon where a defendant is subsequently pardoned upon the ground of innocence or the conviction is reversed or vacated.

NY A05269

Provides for the return of fines, restitution and reparation payments and any interest thereon where a defendant is subsequently pardoned upon the ground of innocence or the conviction is reversed or vacated.

NY A09927

Provides that a certified copy of a birth record shall be issued upon a specific request therefor by a person with a direct interest in the content of the birth record and that the information contained therein is necessary for the determination of personal or property right.

NY S09177

Provides that a certified copy of a birth record shall be issued upon a specific request therefor by a person with a direct interest in the content of the birth record and that the information contained therein is necessary for the determination of personal or property right.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.