Hon. Biju Koshy named supervising judge of Richmond County Criminal Court

April 22, 2024 Robert Abruzzese, Courthouse Editor

Trailblazers in justice (pictured from left to right): Hon. Biju Koshy, the first South-Asian male judge in Richmond County; Hon. Shahabuddeen Ally, the first Muslim male judge in New York State; Hon. Raja Rajeswari, the first Indian-American judge in New York; and Hon. Lillian Wan, the first Asian American female judge in the Appellate Division, Second Department. Photo courtesy of Gov. Kathy Hochul’s Office

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Hon. Biju Koshy has been appointed as the supervising judge of Richmond County Criminal Court, becoming the first Asian American to occupy this judicial role in the history of the New York City Criminal Court.

The appointment was announced by Chief Judge Joseph Zayas and First Deputy Chief Administrative Judge Norman St. George on Friday, following consultations with Presiding Justice Hector LaSalle of the Appellate Division, Second Department.

Judge Koshy will take over from Acting Supervising Judge Alexander Jeong. Chief Administrative Judge Zayas emphasized Judge Koshy’s understanding of the justice needs of the Staten Island community, which he has gained through his long-term residence and participation in local civic activities.

“I am proud to announce this historic and well-earned appointment,” Judge Zayas said. “Biju Koshy is a fair-minded and talented judge, garnering a reputation for his innovative and collaborative leadership, legal acumen and outstanding work ethic. Judge Koshy has ably served the New York City Criminal Court in a variety of capacities for well over a decade. Additionally, as a longtime Richmond County resident and participant in many local civic organizations and activities, he has a deep understanding of the justice needs of the Staten Island community.”

First Deputy Chief Administrative Judge St. George also commented on Judge Koshy’s familiarity with criminal law and court operations, emphasizing his readiness to excel in his new role. Deputy Chief Administrative Judge for New York City Courts Deborah Kaplan mentioned Judge Koshy’s capabilities in problem-solving and adaptability as important for leading the Richmond County Criminal Court.

The Asian American Judges Association has expressed support for Judge Koshy’s appointment. Hon. Shahabuddeen Ally, president of the Association and supervising judge of the New York County Civil Court, explained the significance of this appointment.

“The Asian American Judges Association is thrilled to celebrate the appointment of Judge Biju Koshy as supervising judge of Richmond County Criminal Court,” said Judge Ally. “Judge Koshy is an eminently qualified jurist who brings much-needed diversity to the bench. Diversity and inclusion matters at all levels. This is a good day for New York State.”

Expressing gratitude for his appointment, Judge Koshy reflected on his 14 years of service at the Richmond County Criminal Court.

“I am humbled and honored to receive this appointment and thankful to the New York State Courts’ leadership team for this opportunity,” said Judge Koshy. “I have been privileged to work in the Richmond County Criminal Court for the past 14 years in various roles. I look forward to collaborating with our judges, court personnel and our partners in justice to serve the needs of all those who come before the Criminal Court,”

Judge Koshy’s legal career spans various significant positions, including roles as a prosecutor and senior court attorney before his judicial appointment in 2021. He is also an active member of several legal and community organizations.