By The TimesLedger
In a year with more than its share of doom and gloom, the opening of the new Queens Family Court is happy news indeed. The new building is more than just a court. It is a gleaming state-of-the art justice center that houses both court rooms and the agencies that provide support for the important work done in the Family Court.
The former Family Court building located on Parsons Boulevard was never intended to be a courthouse. The former library was meant to be used as a temporary court until a suitable building could be created. The years turned into decades and those who cared about the families who squeezed into the tiny, decaying building felt a shared sense of frustration.
No one who understands the critical mission of the Family Court will begrudge the millions of dollars spent on this beautiful new building. First and foremost, the Family Court brings justice to juveniles who have been involved in criminal activity. Society’s best hope in redirecting the lives of criminals is to reach them when they first come to the attention of the justice system. It is essential that the juvenile delinquents, their families and their victims come face to face with justice in a dignified and professional setting.
The Family Court also deals with charges of neglect and child abuse, with adoptions and custody proceedings. Families involved in such matters already have enough stress. At least now they will wait for their cases to be called in a bright, comfortable setting.
Borough President Helen Marshall got it right when she said, “I’ve been to the old Family Court. It was horrible. People were lined up around the corner and out the door. With these new waiting rooms, it means that people won’t be standing around.”
We congratulate Chief Judge Judith Kaye, Administrative Judge Joseph Lauria and everyone else who helped to make this new court a reality.
