Hochul: 'Startling' New Reports Show Need to Update Discovery Laws

A package of three new reports highlights the need for New York State to make changes to its discovery laws in order to protect victims of crime. That's according to Governor Kathy Hochul during a press conference Monday afternoon. She says the reports released by the State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence reflect input from more than 1,400 people statewide. Hochul says the reports identify a common theme -- gender-based violence survivors need more support...

Kathy Hochul: system desperately needs repair

People who provided input for the reports included survivors, their family members, community members, victim service providers, law enforcement and court personnel, and county governments. Hochul's proposed discovery changes include ensuring procedural fairness, shortening case processing times, reducing the length of pre-trial incarceration, and safeguarding sensitive and personal information belonging to witnesses. Discovery law changes have been one of the major sticking points in state budget negotiations.

Photo by Governor Kathy Hochul's Office