UPDATE: Queens Criminal Court Supervising Judge Edwin Novillo is making headlines as he aggressively tackles the court’s overwhelming case backlog. Since taking the helm in January 2024, Novillo has introduced innovative strategies to enhance trial capacity and expedite case processing, significantly impacting the community.
In under a year, Judge Novillo has achieved a remarkable 31% decrease in cases over a year old, showcasing his commitment to justice. He has opened a second trial part for misdemeanor cases, resulting in a 20% increase in completed trials compared to the previous year. “We don’t want anybody staying incarcerated a second longer than they need to,” Novillo stated, emphasizing his mission to streamline the judicial process.
Novillo’s journey to the bench began with a profound personal experience. As a child in Jackson Heights, Queens, he witnessed a friend’s arrest and the compassion of a Legal Aid attorney. This moment inspired him to dedicate his life to public defense, leading to a career representing around 9,000 defendants during his tenure at the Legal Aid Society.
His experience as a public defender has greatly influenced his approach as a judge. “I don’t look at cases that come before me as pieces of paper,” he explained, viewing each case through the lens of humanity. This perspective has fueled his relentless work ethic, as he now oversees dozens of cases daily in his role as supervising judge.
With technology in hand, Novillo remains accessible, stating, “Everybody who’s involved in our court system has my cell phone.” This level of engagement has allowed him to maintain open lines of communication, enhancing collaboration among court staff and legal representatives.
Novillo’s innovative measures extend to the introduction of an expedited arraignment part on Fridays, which processes 20 to 30 cases each week. This initiative has led to a 12% decrease in the arrest-to-arraignment time, further reducing the burden on defendants and their families.
The judge’s dedication to justice is palpable as he balances his demanding role with family life, spending quality time with his two children, ages 11 and 15. “Anytime I get to spend with them — whether it’s interrupted or not — is how I unwind,” he shared, illustrating the personal sacrifices made in pursuit of public service.
As Novillo continues to implement changes within the Queens Criminal Court, his focus remains on providing justice efficiently and compassionately. His relentless pursuit of excellence and commitment to improving the judicial system make him a pivotal figure in New York’s legal landscape.
Stay tuned for further updates on Judge Edwin Novillo’s impactful initiatives and their effects on the Queens community.
