Censure Issued to New York Judge for Inappropriate Remarks
April 10, 2025, 2:11 pm CDT
A New York judge has received a formal censure due to inappropriate comments aimed at fellow court staff regarding new case tracking systems.
Judge Daniel L. Seiden, serving in Binghamton City Court, has agreed to a censure following complaints about his discourteous conduct towards colleagues and court officials. According to the New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct, the judge’s remarks fostered a hostile work environment.
Details of the Incident
The controversy arose when Judge Seiden actively opposed transitioning to a new web-based case-filing system. When his court clerks approached him in April 2023 to discuss the changes, they were met with raised voices and a remark from Seiden: “stay out of my shorts,” which he later clarified was meant to indicate an interest in maintaining his independence as a judge.
In an email response to his reassignment in October 2024, Seiden expressed his frustrations over what he described as an “administrative trick” being employed to remove him from his elected position. He labeled the actions of administrative judges as “dangerous” and criticized the officials for their “staggering arrogance,” claiming they were abusing their power.
Ethics Proceedings and Apology
During the disciplinary proceedings, Judge Seiden displayed a cooperative demeanor and showed genuine remorse for his earlier conduct. He has since completed civility training and issued a formal apology to his colleagues, acknowledging that he should have expressed his regret at the time of his remarks.
Robert H. Tembeckjian, the administrator of the judicial conduct commission, emphasized the importance of maintaining respect and courtesy within the judiciary. “Petulant quarreling with colleagues is neither productive nor conducive to the administration of justice,” he stated, underscoring the expectations for judicial conduct.
Future Implications
Despite the recent censure, Judge Seiden remains in office until his term ends in 2034; however, he must retire by the end of 2028 upon reaching the age of 70.
For ongoing updates related to judicial conduct and governance, refer to the original press release from the New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct.
