Tanya R. Kennedy is an American jurist who serves as an Associate Justice of the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division, First Judicial Department. She was appointed to this prestigious appellate court by Governor Andrew Cuomo in 2020.
Early Life and Education Born and raised in New York City, Tanya Kennedy pursued her undergraduate studies at St. John's University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree. She then attended Fordham University School of Law, graduating with a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree.
Judicial Career Justice Kennedy has a distinguished career in the New York State judicial system. Her career began in the legal field, serving as a Law Clerk to Justice Shirley Kornreich and later as an associate in private practice, specializing in litigation. She also served as Principal Law Clerk to Justice Barry Cozier in the New York State Supreme Court.
In 2005, Kennedy was elected as a Judge of the New York City Civil Court for New York County. Her tenure there demonstrated her judicial acumen and commitment to justice.
Building on her experience, she was subsequently elected as a Justice of the New York State Supreme Court for New York County in 2009. In this role, she presided over a wide range of complex civil matters, including commercial disputes, medical malpractice, and personal injury cases. Her work in the trial court earned her a reputation for fairness, diligence, and legal scholarship.
In 2020, Governor Andrew Cuomo elevated Justice Kennedy to the Appellate Division, First Department, which covers Manhattan and The Bronx. As an Associate Justice on the appellate bench, she is part of a panel of judges that reviews appeals from lower courts, interpreting and applying the law to ensure proper legal procedure and outcomes.
Professional Affiliations and Recognition Justice Kennedy has been actively involved in numerous professional organizations throughout her career. She is a member of several bar associations and serves on various committees dedicated to improving the legal system and promoting diversity within the judiciary. Her contributions to the legal community and her judicial service have been widely recognized.