New York’s latest discovery changes took effect on Aug. 7, reshaping how prosecutors certify readiness, how courts judge diligence and how broadly evidence must be turned over before trial.
The adjustments, passed with the state budget, come amid continuing debate over dismissals tied to discovery lapses and follow a wave of appellate decisions interpreting the 2019 reforms.
At a recent New York State Judicial Institute CLE, Justice Dineen Riviezzo walked lawyers through the updates. The most visible shift is in scope, she explained.
Justice Dineen Riviezzo of the Kings County Supreme Court, who walked lawyers through the new discovery rules at a recent CLE. Brooklyn Eagle photo by Rob Abruzzese
The law used to say prosecutors had to share evidence “related to the subject matter of the