Case: Bergnes v. New York State Unified Court System/Office of Court Administration

1:22-cv-04298 | U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York

Filed Date: May 25, 2022

Case Ongoing

Clearinghouse coding complete

Case Summary

On May 25, 2022, a self-identified class of interpreters and New York Communities for Change filed a class action lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York against the New York State Unified Court System. Plaintiffs asserted that interpreters, who also happen to largely be of non-U.S. national origin and all associate with people of non-U.S. national origin, are the lowest-paid state courtroom personnel, despite being the highest paid in the federal court system. …

On May 25, 2022, a self-identified class of interpreters and New York Communities for Change filed a class action lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York against the New York State Unified Court System. Plaintiffs asserted that interpreters, who also happen to largely be of non-U.S. national origin and all associate with people of non-U.S. national origin, are the lowest-paid state courtroom personnel, despite being the highest paid in the federal court system. Plaintiffs alleged that the pay structure constituted associational and national origin discrimination. Plaintiffs filed suit under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and 42 U.S.C. Section 2000d; New York State Human Rights Law Sections 296 (1) and (2); and New York City Human Rights Law § 8-107 (1)(a) and 4(a)(1)(a). Defendants included the New York State Unified Court System and its administrative arm, the Office of Court Administration ("OCA"), which at the time of filing employed about 246 full- and part-time interpreters in 20 foreign languages and American Sign Language. The case was assigned to Judge Ronnie Abrams and Magistrate Judge Valerie Figueredo. 

On June 28, 2023, Judge Ronnie Abrams dismissed the lawsuit on the grounds the plaintiffs’ claims were barred by the state’s sovereign immunity. Judge Abrams held that due to Eleventh Amendment immunity, a state government or agency may be divested of immunity and haled into federal court in only two ways: (1) Congress may abrogate the sovereign immunity through a statutory enactment or (2) a state may waive its immunity and agree to be sued in federal court. Thus, the New York State Unified Court System was dismissed from the suit. Judge Abrams allowed the plaintiffs to amend and refile claims against top OCA officials pursuant to 42 U.S.C. § 1983. 

On July 25, 2023, plaintiffs filed their amended complaint. 

As of September 12, 2023, litigation is ongoing. 

Summary Authors

Calvin Kim (9/12/2023)

People

For PACER's information on parties and their attorneys, see: https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/63337074/parties/bergnes-v-new-york-state-unified-court-systemoffice-of-court/


Judge(s)

Abrams, Ronnie (New York)

Attorney for Plaintiff

Schwartz, Arthur Z (New York)

Attorney for Defendant

Sonnenfeldt, Joya C (New York)

Sutro, Steven Adam (New York)

show all people

Documents in the Clearinghouse

Document
1

1:22-cv-04298

Class Action Complaint

May 25, 2022

May 25, 2022

Complaint
19

1:22-cv-04298

First Amended Class Action Complaint

New York Communities for Change v. New York State Unified Court System/Office of Court Administration

Oct. 5, 2022

Oct. 5, 2022

Complaint
38

1:22-cv-04298

Opinion & Order

New York Communities for Change v. New York State Unified Court System/Office of Court Administration

June 28, 2023

June 28, 2023

Order/Opinion

680 F.Supp.3d 407

Docket

See docket on RECAP: https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/63337074/bergnes-v-new-york-state-unified-court-systemoffice-of-court/

Last updated Aug. 10, 2025, 12:31 a.m.

ECF Number Description Date Link Date / Link
1

COMPLAINT against New York State Unified Court System/Office of Court Administration. (Filing Fee $ 402.00, Receipt Number ANYSDC-26196837)Document filed by Laura Gonzalez, Oscar Ore, Guadalupe Alvarez, Yanet Santiago, Luis R. Lugo, Manuel Carvajal, Sandy Rand, Linda Bergnes, Edward C. Luk, Julio Rosa, Julio Lucero, Hoe Yen Lee, Teresa Venditto, Michael Sofronas, Glenys Saldana, Cynthia Viau, Roberto Isaza, Marisol Cornielle, Kimberly Hernandez, David B. Olson, Arnold S. Lemus, Ronald E. Lopez, Carlos Collazo, Guadalupe Ornelas, Aleksandra Sagan, Rafael Fortich, Wanda Negron, Hector Tomasi..(Schwartz, Arthur) (Entered: 05/25/2022)

May 25, 2022

May 25, 2022

Clearinghouse
2

CIVIL COVER SHEET filed..(Schwartz, Arthur) (Entered: 05/25/2022)

May 25, 2022

May 25, 2022

PACER
3

REQUEST FOR ISSUANCE OF SUMMONS as to New York State Unified Court System/Office of Court Administration, re: 1 Complaint,,. Document filed by Guadalupe Alvarez, Linda Bergnes, Manuel Carvajal, Carlos Collazo, Marisol Cornielle, Rafael Fortich, Laura Gonzalez, Kimberly Hernandez, Roberto Isaza, Hoe Yen Lee, Arnold S. Lemus, Ronald E. Lopez, Julio Lucero, Luis R. Lugo, Edward C. Luk, Wanda Negron, David B. Olson, Oscar Ore, Guadalupe Ornelas, Sandy Rand, Julio Rosa, Aleksandra Sagan, Glenys Saldana, Yanet Santiago, Michael Sofronas, Hector Tomasi, Teresa Venditto, Cynthia Viau..(Schwartz, Arthur) (Entered: 05/25/2022)

May 25, 2022

May 25, 2022

PACER

***NOTICE TO ATTORNEY REGARDING CIVIL. CASE OPENING STATISTICAL ERROR CORRECTION: Notice to attorney Arthur Z Schwartz. The following case opening statistical information was erroneously selected/entered: Dollar Demand $21,000,000. The following correction(s) have been made to your case entry: the Dollar Demand has been modified to $9,999,000. (sj)

May 26, 2022

May 26, 2022

PACER

CASE OPENING INITIAL ASSIGNMENT NOTICE: The above-entitled action is assigned to Judge Ronnie Abrams. Please download and review the Individual Practices of the assigned District Judge, located at https://nysd.uscourts.gov/judges/district-judges. Attorneys are responsible for providing courtesy copies to judges where their Individual Practices require such. Please download and review the ECF Rules and Instructions, located at https://nysd.uscourts.gov/rules/ecf-related-instructions..(sj)

May 26, 2022

May 26, 2022

PACER

Magistrate Judge Valerie Figueredo is so designated. Pursuant to 28 U.S.C. Section 636(c) and Fed. R. Civ. P. 73(b)(1) parties are notified that they may consent to proceed before a United States Magistrate Judge. Parties who wish to consent may access the necessary form at the following link: https://nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/2018-06/AO-3.pdf. (sj)

May 26, 2022

May 26, 2022

PACER

Case Designated ECF. (sj)

May 26, 2022

May 26, 2022

PACER
4

ELECTRONIC SUMMONS ISSUED as to New York State Unified Court System/Office of Court Administration. (sj) (Entered: 05/26/2022)

May 26, 2022

May 26, 2022

PACER

Notice to Attorney Regarding Case Opening Statistical Error Correction

May 26, 2022

May 26, 2022

PACER

Case Opening Initial Assignment Notice

May 26, 2022

May 26, 2022

PACER
5

NOTICE OF APPEARANCE by Steven Adam Sutro on behalf of New York State Unified Court System/Office of Court Administration..(Sutro, Steven) (Entered: 06/30/2022)

June 30, 2022

June 30, 2022

PACER
6

LETTER MOTION for Extension of Time to respond to complaint addressed to Judge Ronnie Abrams from Steven A. Sutro dated June 30, 2022. Document filed by New York State Unified Court System/Office of Court Administration..(Sutro, Steven) (Entered: 06/30/2022)

June 30, 2022

June 30, 2022

PACER
7

AFFIDAVIT OF SERVICE of Summons and Complaint,,. New York State Unified Court System/Office of Court Administration served on 6/10/2022, answer due 7/1/2022. Service was accepted by Craig Penn, Esq., Deputy Counsel. Document filed by Laura Gonzalez; Oscar Ore; Guadalupe Alvarez; Yanet Santiago; Luis R. Lugo; Manuel Carvajal; Sandy Rand; Linda Bergnes; Edward C. Luk; Julio Rosa; Julio Lucero; Hoe Yen Lee; Teresa Venditto; Michael Sofronas; Glenys Saldana; Cynthia Viau; Roberto Isaza; Marisol Cornielle; Kimberly Hernandez; David B. Olson; Arnold S. Lemus; Ronald E. Lopez; Carlos Collazo; Guadalupe Ornelas; Aleksandra Sagan; Rafael Fortich; Wanda Negron; Hector Tomasi..(Schwartz, Arthur) (Entered: 06/30/2022)

June 30, 2022

June 30, 2022

PACER
8

ORDER: granting 6 Letter Motion for Extension of Time. Application Granted. SO ORDERED. (Signed by Judge Ronnie Abrams on 7/01/2022) (ama) (Entered: 07/01/2022)

July 1, 2022

July 1, 2022

PACER

Set/Reset Deadlines: New York State Unified Court System/Office of Court Administration answer due 8/24/2022. (ama)

July 1, 2022

July 1, 2022

PACER
9

MOTION to Dismiss the complaint. Document filed by New York State Unified Court System/Office of Court Administration. (Attachments: # 1 Supplement Memorandum of Law in Support of Motion to Dismiss).(Sutro, Steven) (Entered: 08/24/2022)

Aug. 24, 2022

Aug. 24, 2022

PACER
10

MEMORANDUM OF LAW in Support re: 9 MOTION to Dismiss the complaint. . Document filed by New York State Unified Court System/Office of Court Administration..(Sutro, Steven) (Entered: 08/24/2022)

Aug. 24, 2022

Aug. 24, 2022

PACER
11

LETTER addressed to Judge Ronnie Abrams from Arthur Schwartz dated August 28, 2022 re: Requesting Briefing Schedule on Motion to Dismiss. Document filed by Guadalupe Alvarez, Linda Bergnes, Manuel Carvajal, Carlos Collazo, Marisol Cornielle, Rafael Fortich, Laura Gonzalez, Kimberly Hernandez, Roberto Isaza, Hoe Yen Lee, Arnold S. Lemus, Ronald E. Lopez, Julio Lucero, Luis R. Lugo, Edward C. Luk, Wanda Negron, David B. Olson, Oscar Ore, Guadalupe Ornelas, Sandy Rand, Julio Rosa, Aleksandra Sagan, Glenys Saldana, Yanet Santiago, Michael Sofronas, Hector Tomasi, Teresa Venditto, Cynthia Viau..(Schwartz, Arthur) (Entered: 08/28/2022)

Aug. 28, 2022

Aug. 28, 2022

PACER
12

MEMO ENDORSEMENT on re: 11 Letter,, filed by Ronald E. Lopez, Roberto Isaza, Linda Bergnes, Edward C. Luk, Carlos Collazo, Guadalupe Ornelas, Wanda Negron, Teresa Venditto, Sandy Rand, Kimberly Hernandez, Julio Lucero, Oscar Ore, Manuel Carvajal, Cynthia Viau, Julio Rosa, Aleksandra Sagan, David B. Olson, Guadalupe Alvarez, Arnold S. Lemus, Yanet Santiago, Hoe Yen Lee, Glenys Saldana, Luis R. Lugo, Michael Sofronas, Laura Gonzalez, Hector Tomasi, Rafael Fortich, Marisol Cornielle. ENDORSEMENT: As set out in the Local Civil Rules of the Southern District of New York (available at https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/local_rules/2021-10-15%20Joint% 20Local%20Rules.pdf), a party must respond to a motion to dismiss 14 days after service of the motion papers, which makes Plaintiffs' response due September 7, 2022. Further, as set out in this Court's individual rules of practice (available at https://nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/Judge%20Abrams% 20-%20Individual%20Rules%20of%20Practice%20in%20Civil% 20Cases.pdf), Plaintiffs must, within 14 days of receipt of a motion to dismiss, notify the Court and Defendant whether (i) it intends to file an amended pleading and when it shall do so, or (ii) it will rely on the pleading being attacked. Construing this letter as an extension request, the Court extends Plaintiffs' time to file a response or an amended pleading to September 23, 2022. No further extensions will be granted absent good cause. SO ORDERED. ( Amended Pleadings due by 9/23/2022., Responses due by 9/23/2022) (Signed by Judge Ronnie Abrams on 8/29/2022) (tg) (Entered: 08/29/2022)

Aug. 29, 2022

Aug. 29, 2022

PACER
13

LETTER addressed to Judge Ronnie Abrams from Arthur Schwartz dated September 23, 2022 re: Request to File First Amended Complaint on September 27, 2022. Document filed by Linda Bergnes. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit Draft First Amended Complaint).(Schwartz, Arthur) (Entered: 09/23/2022)

Sept. 23, 2022

Sept. 23, 2022

PACER
14

MEMO ENDORSEMENT on re: 13 Letter, filed by Linda Bergnes. ENDORSEMENT: Application granted. SO ORDERED. ( Amended Pleadings due by 9/27/2022.) (Signed by Judge Ronnie Abrams on 9/26/2022) (ate) (Entered: 09/26/2022)

Sept. 26, 2022

Sept. 26, 2022

PACER
15

FILING ERROR - DEFICIENT PLEADING - FRCP RULE 15 NON- COMPLIANCE FIRST AMENDED COMPLAINT amending 1 Complaint against Guadalupe Alvarez, Linda Bergnes, Manuel Carvajal, Carlos Collazo, Marisol Cornielle, Rafael Fortich, Laura Gonzalez, Kimberly Hernandez, Roberto Isaza, Hoe Yen Lee, Arnold S. Lemus, Ronald E. Lopez, Julio Lucero, Luis R. Lugo, Edward C. Luk, Wanda Negron, David B. Olson, Oscar Ore, Guadalupe Ornelas, Sandy Rand, Julio Rosa, Aleksandra Sagan, Glenys Saldana, Yanet Santiago, Michael Sofronas, Hector Tomasi, Teresa Venditto, Cynthia Viau, JOSE ORTIZ ESCOBAR, New York Communities for Change with JURY DEMAND.Document filed by JOSE ORTIZ ESCOBAR, New York Communities for Change. Related document: 1 Complaint.(Schwartz, Arthur) Modified on 10/3/2022 (sj). (Entered: 09/30/2022)

Sept. 30, 2022

Sept. 30, 2022

PACER
16

LETTER MOTION for Extension of Time to File First Amended Complaint, Nunc Pro Tunc, addressed to Judge Ronnie Abrams from Arthur Schwartz dated September 30, 2022. Document filed by Guadalupe Alvarez, Linda Bergnes, Manuel Carvajal, Carlos Collazo, Marisol Cornielle, JOSE ORTIZ ESCOBAR, Rafael Fortich, Laura Gonzalez, Kimberly Hernandez, Roberto Isaza, Hoe Yen Lee, Arnold S. Lemus, Ronald E. Lopez, Julio Lucero, Luis R. Lugo, Edward C. Luk, Wanda Negron, New York Communities for Change, David B. Olson, Oscar Ore, Guadalupe Ornelas, Sandy Rand, Julio Rosa, Aleksandra Sagan, Glenys Saldana, Yanet Santiago, Michael Sofronas, Hector Tomasi, Teresa Venditto, Cynthia Viau..(Schwartz, Arthur) (Entered: 09/30/2022)

Sept. 30, 2022

Sept. 30, 2022

PACER

***NOTICE TO ATTORNEY REGARDING DEFICIENT PLEADING. Notice to Attorney Arthur Z Schwartz re: Document No. 15 Amended Complaint. The filing is deficient for the following reason(s): Court's leave has not been granted. File the Exhibit to Pleading event found under the event list Other Documents and attach either opposing party's written consent or Court's leave. (sj)

Oct. 3, 2022

Oct. 3, 2022

PACER
17

ORDER granting 16 LETTER MOTION for Extension of Time to File First Amended Complaint, Nunc Pro Tunc. Application granted. SO ORDERED. (Signed by Judge Ronnie Abrams on 10/03/2022) (jca) (Entered: 10/03/2022)

Oct. 3, 2022

Oct. 3, 2022

RECAP
18

FILING ERROR - DEFICIENT PLEADING - PDF ERROR - FIRST AMENDED COMPLAINT amending 1 Complaint against New York State Unified Court System/Office of Court Administration with JURY DEMAND.Document filed by Laura Gonzalez, Oscar Ore, Guadalupe Alvarez, Yanet Santiago, Luis R. Lugo, Manuel Carvajal, Sandy Rand, Linda Bergnes, Edward C. Luk, JOSE ORTIZ ESCOBAR, Julio Rosa, Julio Lucero, Hoe Yen Lee, Teresa Venditto, Michael Sofronas, Glenys Saldana, Cynthia Viau, Roberto Isaza, New York Communities for Change, Marisol Cornielle, Kimberly Hernandez, David B. Olson, Arnold S. Lemus, Ronald E. Lopez, Carlos Collazo, Guadalupe Ornelas, Aleksandra Sagan, Rafael Fortich, Wanda Negron, Hector Tomasi. Related document: 1 Complaint.(Schwartz, Arthur) Modified on 10/4/2022 (sj). Modified on 10/5/2022 (gp). (Entered: 10/03/2022)

Oct. 3, 2022

Oct. 3, 2022

PACER

Notice to Attorney Regarding Deficient Pleading

Oct. 3, 2022

Oct. 3, 2022

PACER

Notice to Attorney Regarding Deficient Pleading

Oct. 4, 2022

Oct. 4, 2022

PACER
19

FIRST AMENDED COMPLAINT amending 18 Amended Complaint,,, 1 Complaint,, against New York State Unified Court System/Office of Court Administration with JURY DEMAND.Document filed by Laura Gonzalez, Oscar Ore, Guadalupe Alvarez, Yanet Santiago, Luis R. Lugo, Manuel Carvajal, Sandy Rand, Linda Bergnes, Edward C. Luk, Jose Oriz Escobar, Julio Rosa, Julio Lucero, Hoe Yen Lee, Teresa Venditto, Michael Sofronas, Glenys Saldana, Cynthia Viau, Roberto Isaza, New York Communities for Change, Marisol Cornielle, Kimberly Hernandez, David B. Olson, Arnold S. Lemus, Ronald E. Lopez, Carlos Collazo, Guadalupe Ornelas, Aleksandra Sagan, Rafael Fortich, Wanda Negron, Hector Tomasi. Related document: 18 Amended Complaint,,, 1 Complaint,,..(Schwartz, Arthur) (Entered: 10/05/2022)

Oct. 5, 2022

Oct. 5, 2022

Clearinghouse
20

LETTER MOTION for Extension of Time to respond to amended complaint addressed to Judge Ronnie Abrams from Steven A. Sutro dated October 14, 2022. Document filed by New York State Unified Court System/Office of Court Administration..(Sutro, Steven) (Entered: 10/14/2022)

Oct. 14, 2022

Oct. 14, 2022

PACER
21

ORDER granting 20 Letter Motion for Extension of Time. Application granted. SO ORDERED. (Signed by Judge Ronnie Abrams on 10/17/2022) (vfr) (Entered: 10/17/2022)

Oct. 17, 2022

Oct. 17, 2022

PACER

Set/Reset Deadlines: New York State Unified Court System/Office of Court Administration answer due 11/10/2022. (vfr)

Oct. 17, 2022

Oct. 17, 2022

PACER
22

FIRST MOTION to Dismiss the Amended Complaint. Document filed by New York State Unified Court System/Office of Court Administration..(Sutro, Steven) (Entered: 11/10/2022)

Nov. 10, 2022

Nov. 10, 2022

PACER
23

MEMORANDUM OF LAW in Support re: 22 FIRST MOTION to Dismiss the Amended Complaint. . Document filed by New York State Unified Court System/Office of Court Administration..(Sutro, Steven) (Entered: 11/10/2022)

Nov. 10, 2022

Nov. 10, 2022

PACER
24

LETTER MOTION to Continue and Set Briefing Schedule on Motion to Dismiss addressed to Judge Ronnie Abrams from Arthur Schwartz dated November 11, 2022. Document filed by Linda Bergnes..(Schwartz, Arthur) (Entered: 11/11/2022)

Nov. 11, 2022

Nov. 11, 2022

PACER
25

ORDER granting 24 Letter Motion to Continue. Application granted. SO ORDERED. (Signed by Judge Ronnie Abrams on 11/14/2022) (ate) (Entered: 11/14/2022)

Nov. 14, 2022

Nov. 14, 2022

PACER

Set/Reset Deadlines: Responses due by 12/8/2022. Replies due by 12/22/2022. (ate)

Nov. 14, 2022

Nov. 14, 2022

PACER
26

JOINT LETTER MOTION for Extension of Time to File Response/Reply as to Set/Reset Deadlines, 25 Order on Motion to Continue, 22 FIRST MOTION to Dismiss the Amended Complaint. addressed to Judge Ronnie Abrams from Arthur Schwartz dated December 7, 2022. Document filed by Guadalupe Alvarez, Linda Bergnes, Manuel Carvajal, Carlos Collazo, Marisol Cornielle, Jose Oriz Escobar, Rafael Fortich, Laura Gonzalez, Kimberly Hernandez, Roberto Isaza, Hoe Yen Lee, Arnold S. Lemus, Ronald E. Lopez, Julio Lucero, Luis R. Lugo, Edward C. Luk, Wanda Negron, New York Communities for Change..(Schwartz, Arthur) (Entered: 12/07/2022)

Dec. 7, 2022

Dec. 7, 2022

PACER
27

ORDER granting 26 Letter Motion for Extension of Time to File Response/Reply addressed to Judge Ronnie Abrams from Arthur Schwartz. Application granted. SO ORDERED. Responses due by 12/29/2022 Replies due by 1/26/2023. (Signed by Judge Ronnie Abrams on 12/8/2022) (vfr) (Entered: 12/08/2022)

Dec. 8, 2022

Dec. 8, 2022

PACER
28

MEMORANDUM OF LAW in Opposition re: 9 MOTION to Dismiss the complaint. . Document filed by Guadalupe Alvarez, Linda Bergnes, Manuel Carvajal, Carlos Collazo, Marisol Cornielle, Jose Oriz Escobar, Rafael Fortich, Laura Gonzalez, Kimberly Hernandez, Roberto Isaza, Hoe Yen Lee, Arnold S. Lemus, Ronald E. Lopez, Julio Lucero, Luis R. Lugo, Edward C. Luk, Wanda Negron, New York Communities for Change, David B. Olson, Oscar Ore, Guadalupe Ornelas, Sandy Rand, Julio Rosa, Aleksandra Sagan, Glenys Saldana, Yanet Santiago, Michael Sofronas, Hector Tomasi, Teresa Venditto, Cynthia Viau..(Schwartz, Arthur) (Entered: 12/30/2022)

Dec. 30, 2022

Dec. 30, 2022

PACER
29

AMENDED MEMORANDUM OF LAW in Opposition re: 9 MOTION to Dismiss the complaint. --CORRECTED--. Document filed by Guadalupe Alvarez, Linda Bergnes, Manuel Carvajal, Carlos Collazo, Marisol Cornielle, Jose Oriz Escobar, Rafael Fortich, Laura Gonzalez, Kimberly Hernandez, Roberto Isaza, Hoe Yen Lee, Arnold S. Lemus, Ronald E. Lopez, Julio Lucero, Luis R. Lugo, Edward C. Luk, Wanda Negron, New York Communities for Change, David B. Olson, Oscar Ore, Guadalupe Ornelas, Sandy Rand, Julio Rosa, Aleksandra Sagan, Glenys Saldana, Yanet Santiago, Michael Sofronas, Hector Tomasi, Teresa Venditto, Cynthia Viau..(Schwartz, Arthur) (Entered: 12/30/2022)

Dec. 30, 2022

Dec. 30, 2022

PACER
30

REPLY MEMORANDUM OF LAW in Support re: 22 FIRST MOTION to Dismiss the Amended Complaint. . Document filed by New York State Unified Court System/Office of Court Administration..(Sutro, Steven) (Entered: 01/26/2023)

Jan. 26, 2023

Jan. 26, 2023

PACER
31

LETTER addressed to Judge Ronnie Abrams from Arthur Schwartz dated February 10, 2023 re: Oral Argument. Document filed by Linda Bergnes, New York Communities for Change..(Schwartz, Arthur) (Entered: 02/10/2023)

Feb. 10, 2023

Feb. 10, 2023

PACER
32

ORDER: Oral argument on Defendant New York State Unified Court System/Office of Court Administration's motion to dismiss shall be held on June 8, 2023 at 12:00 p.m. in Courtroom 1506 of the Thurgood Marshall Courthouse at 40 Foley Square. In addition, no later than May 26, 2023, the parties shall each submit a letter brief, no longer than three pages in length, addressing whether Plaintiffs' claims are barred by Eleventh Amendment sovereign immunity. SO ORDERED., ( Oral Argument set for 6/8/2023 at 12:00 PM in Courtroom 1506, 40 Centre Street, New York, NY 10007 before Judge Ronnie Abrams.) (Signed by Judge Ronnie Abrams on 5/18/2023) (ama) (Entered: 05/18/2023)

May 18, 2023

May 18, 2023

RECAP
33

RESPONSE in Support of Motion re: 22 FIRST MOTION to Dismiss the Amended Complaint. Supplemental Letter Brief on 11th Amendment. Document filed by New York State Unified Court System/Office of Court Administration..(Sutro, Steven) (Entered: 05/26/2023)

May 26, 2023

May 26, 2023

PACER
34

LETTER RESPONSE in Opposition to Motion addressed to Judge Ronnie Abrams from Arthur Schwartz dated May 26, 2023 re: 22 FIRST MOTION to Dismiss the Amended Complaint. . Document filed by Guadalupe Alvarez, Linda Bergnes, Manuel Carvajal, Carlos Collazo, Marisol Cornielle, Jose Oriz Escobar, Rafael Fortich, Laura Gonzalez, Kimberly Hernandez, Roberto Isaza, Hoe Yen Lee, Arnold S. Lemus, Ronald E. Lopez, Julio Lucero, Luis R. Lugo, Edward C. Luk, Wanda Negron, New York Communities for Change, David B. Olson, Oscar Ore, Guadalupe Ornelas, Sandy Rand, Julio Rosa, Aleksandra Sagan, Glenys Saldana, Yanet Santiago, Michael Sofronas, Hector Tomasi, Teresa Venditto, Cynthia Viau..(Schwartz, Arthur) (Entered: 05/26/2023)

May 26, 2023

May 26, 2023

PACER
35

ORDER, Due to a scheduling conflict, oral argument on Defendant New York State Unified Court System/Office of Court Administration's motion to dismiss is hereby rescheduled to June 12, 2023 at 4:30 p.m. in Courtroom 1506 of the Thurgood Marshall Courthouse at 40 Foley Square. SO ORDERED. ( Oral Argument set for 6/12/2023 at 04:30 PM in Courtroom 1506, 40 Centre Street, New York, NY 10007 before Judge Ronnie Abrams.) (Signed by Judge Ronnie Abrams on 6/2/23) (yv) (Entered: 06/02/2023)

June 2, 2023

June 2, 2023

RECAP
36

ORDER: Due to a scheduling conflict, oral argument on Defendant New York State Unified Court System/Office of Court Administration's motion to dismiss is adjourned to June 20, 2023 at 3:00 p.m. in Courtroom 1506 of the Thurgood Marshall Courthouse at 40 Foley Square. SO ORDERED. (Signed by Judge Ronnie Abrams on 6/12/2023) ( Oral Argument set for 6/20/2023 at 03:00 PM in Courtroom 1506, 40 Centre Street, New York, NY 10007 before Judge Ronnie Abrams.) (ks) (Entered: 06/12/2023)

June 12, 2023

June 12, 2023

RECAP
37

ORDER: Oral argument on Defendant New York State Unified Court System/Office of Court Administration's motion to dismiss is adjourned until June 26, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. in Courtroom 1506 of the Thurgood Marshall Courthouse at 40 Foley Square. ( Oral Argument set for 6/26/2023 at 11:00 AM in Courtroom 1506, 40 Centre Street, New York, NY 10007 before Judge Ronnie Abrams.) (Signed by Judge Ronnie Abrams on 6/20/2023) (ate)

June 20, 2023

June 20, 2023

RECAP

Oral Argument

June 26, 2023

June 26, 2023

PACER
38

OPINION & ORDER re: 22 FIRST MOTION to Dismiss the Amended Complaint. filed by New York State Unified Court System/Office of Court Administration. For the foregoing reasons, the Complaint is dismissed in its entirety. Plaintiffs shall have one additional opportunity to amend the Complaint within thirty days, provided they have a good faith basis to do so. The Clerk of Court is respectfully directed to terminate the motion pending at Dkt. 22. (Signed by Judge Ronnie Abrams on 6/28/2023) (ate) (Entered: 06/28/2023)

June 28, 2023

June 28, 2023

RECAP
39

FILING ERROR - DEFICIENT DOCKET ENTRY - FILED AGAINST PARTY ERROR - SECOND AMENDED COMPLAINT amending 19 Amended Complaint,,, against New York State Unified Court System/Office of Court Administration, Joseph A. Zayas, Carolyn Grimaldi with JURY DEMAND.Document filed by Oscar Ore, Guadalupe Alvarez, Yanet Santiago, Luis R. Lugo, Manuel Carvajal, Linda Bergnes, Edward C. Luk, Julio Lucero, Michael Sofronas, Glenys Saldana, Cynthia Viau, New York Communities for Change, David B. Olson, Arnold S. Lemus, Aleksandra Sagan, Rafael Fortich, Laura Gonzalez, Sandy Rand, Jose Oriz Escobar, Hoe Yen Lee, Julio Rosa, Teresa Venditto, Roberto Isaza, Marisol Cornielle, Kimberly Hernandez, Ronald E. Lopez, Carlos Collazo, Guadalupe Ornelas, Wanda Negron, Hector Tomasi, Joseph A. Zayas, Carolyn Grimaldi. Related document: 19 Amended Complaint,,,..(Schwartz, Arthur) Modified on 7/26/2023 (pc). (Entered: 07/25/2023)

July 25, 2023

July 25, 2023

PACER
40

REQUEST FOR ISSUANCE OF SUMMONS as to Joseph A. Zayas, re: 39 Amended Complaint,,,. Document filed by Guadalupe Alvarez, Linda Bergnes, Manuel Carvajal, Carlos Collazo, Marisol Cornielle, Jose Oriz Escobar, Rafael Fortich, Laura Gonzalez, Kimberly Hernandez, Roberto Isaza, Hoe Yen Lee, Arnold S. Lemus, Ronald E. Lopez, Julio Lucero, Luis R. Lugo, Edward C. Luk, Wanda Negron, New York Communities for Change, David B. Olson, Oscar Ore, Guadalupe Ornelas, Sandy Rand, Julio Rosa, Aleksandra Sagan, Glenys Saldana, Yanet Santiago, Michael Sofronas, Hector Tomasi, Teresa Venditto, Cynthia Viau..(Schwartz, Arthur) (Entered: 07/25/2023)

July 25, 2023

July 25, 2023

PACER
41

REQUEST FOR ISSUANCE OF SUMMONS as to Carolyn Grimaldi, re: 39 Amended Complaint,,,. Document filed by Guadalupe Alvarez, Linda Bergnes, Manuel Carvajal, Carlos Collazo, Marisol Cornielle, Jose Oriz Escobar, Rafael Fortich, Laura Gonzalez, Kimberly Hernandez, Roberto Isaza, Hoe Yen Lee, Arnold S. Lemus, Ronald E. Lopez, Julio Lucero, Luis R. Lugo, Edward C. Luk, Wanda Negron, New York Communities for Change, David B. Olson, Oscar Ore, Guadalupe Ornelas, Sandy Rand, Julio Rosa, Aleksandra Sagan, Glenys Saldana, Yanet Santiago, Michael Sofronas, Hector Tomasi, Teresa Venditto, Cynthia Viau..(Schwartz, Arthur) (Entered: 07/25/2023)

July 25, 2023

July 25, 2023

PACER

Notice to Attorney Regarding Deficient Request for Issuance of Summons

July 26, 2023

July 26, 2023

PACER

Notice to Attorney Regarding Deficient Pleading

July 26, 2023

July 26, 2023

PACER

***NOTICE TO ATTORNEY REGARDING DEFICIENT PLEADING. Notice to Attorney Arthur Z Schwartz to RE-FILE Document No. 39 Amended Complaint,,,. The filing is deficient for the following reason(s): the wrong party/parties whom the pleading is against were selected;. Re-file the pleading using the event type Amended Complaint found under the event list Complaints and Other Initiating Documents - attach the correct signed PDF - select the individually named filer/filers - select the individually named party/parties the pleading is against. (pc)

July 26, 2023

July 26, 2023

PACER

***NOTICE TO ATTORNEY REGARDING DEFICIENT REQUEST FOR ISSUANCE OF SUMMONS. Notice to Attorney Arthur Z Schwartz to RE-FILE Document No. 40 Request for Issuance of Summons,, 41 Request for Issuance of Summons,,. The filing is deficient for the following reason(s): The summons requested was not processed due to the deficient pleading. Please file your request for summons when you correct and refile your pleading. Re-file the document using the event type Request for Issuance of Summons found under the event list Service of Process - select the correct filer/filers - and attach the correct summons form PDF. (pc)

July 26, 2023

July 26, 2023

PACER
42

FILING ERROR - DEFICIENT PLEADING - FILED AGAINST PARTY ERROR SECOND AMENDED COMPLAINT amending 19 Amended Complaint,,, against Carolyn Grimaldi, Joseph A. Zayas with JURY DEMAND.Document filed by Oscar Ore, Guadalupe Alvarez, Yanet Santiago, Luis R. Lugo, Manuel Carvajal, Linda Bergnes, Edward C. Luk, Julio Lucero, Michael Sofronas, Glenys Saldana, Cynthia Viau, New York Communities for Change, David B. Olson, Arnold S. Lemus, Aleksandra Sagan, Rafael Fortich, Laura Gonzalez, Sandy Rand, Jose Oriz Escobar, Hoe Yen Lee, Julio Rosa, Teresa Venditto, Roberto Isaza, Marisol Cornielle, Kimberly Hernandez, Ronald E. Lopez, Carlos Collazo, Guadalupe Ornelas, Wanda Negron, Hector Tomasi. Related document: 19 Amended Complaint,,,. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit A - NYS UCS, "Ensuring Language Access: A Strategic Plan for Ensuring Language Access in the New York Courts").(Schwartz, Arthur) Modified on 7/27/2023 (jgo). (Entered: 07/26/2023)

1 Exhibit A - NYS UCS, "Ensuring Language Access: A Strategic Plan for Ensuri

View on PACER

July 26, 2023

July 26, 2023

PACER

Notice to Attorney Regarding Deficient Pleading

July 27, 2023

July 27, 2023

PACER

***NOTICE TO ATTORNEY REGARDING DEFICIENT PLEADING. Notice to Attorney Arthur Z Schwartz to RE-FILE Document No. 42 Second Amended Complaint. The filing is deficient for the following reason(s): the wrong party/parties whom the pleading is against were selected;. Re-file the pleading using the event type Second Amended Complaint found under the event list Complaints and Other Initiating Documents - attach the correct signed PDF - select the individually named filer/filers - select the individually named party/parties the pleading is against. (jgo)

July 27, 2023

July 27, 2023

PACER
43

SECOND AMENDED COMPLAINT amending 42 Amended Complaint,,, 19 Amended Complaint,,, against Carolyn Grimaldi, Joseph A. Zayas with JURY DEMAND.Document filed by Oscar Ore, Guadalupe Alvarez, Yanet Santiago, Luis R. Lugo, Manuel Carvajal, Linda Bergnes, Edward C. Luk, Julio Lucero, Michael Sofronas, Glenys Saldana, Cynthia Viau, New York Communities for Change, David B. Olson, Arnold S. Lemus, Aleksandra Sagan, Rafael Fortich, Laura Gonzalez, Sandy Rand, Jose Oriz Escobar, Hoe Yen Lee, Julio Rosa, Teresa Venditto, Roberto Isaza, Marisol Cornielle, Kimberly Hernandez, Ronald E. Lopez, Carlos Collazo, Guadalupe Ornelas, Wanda Negron, Hector Tomasi. Related document: 42 Amended Complaint,,, 19 Amended Complaint,,,. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit A - NYS UCS, "Ensuring Language Access: A Strategic Plan for Ensuring Language Access in the New York Courts").(Schwartz, Arthur) (Entered: 07/28/2023)

1 Exhibit A - NYS UCS, "Ensuring Language Access: A Strategic Plan for Ensuri

View on PACER

July 28, 2023

July 28, 2023

PACER
44

REQUEST FOR ISSUANCE OF SUMMONS as to Joseph A. Zayas, re: 43 Amended Complaint,,,. Document filed by Guadalupe Alvarez, Linda Bergnes, Manuel Carvajal, Carlos Collazo, Marisol Cornielle, Jose Oriz Escobar, Rafael Fortich, Laura Gonzalez, Kimberly Hernandez, Roberto Isaza, Hoe Yen Lee, Arnold S. Lemus, Ronald E. Lopez, Julio Lucero, Luis R. Lugo, Edward C. Luk, Wanda Negron, New York Communities for Change, David B. Olson, Oscar Ore, Guadalupe Ornelas, Sandy Rand, Julio Rosa, Aleksandra Sagan, Glenys Saldana, Yanet Santiago, Michael Sofronas, Hector Tomasi, Teresa Venditto, Cynthia Viau..(Schwartz, Arthur) (Entered: 07/28/2023)

July 28, 2023

July 28, 2023

PACER
45

REQUEST FOR ISSUANCE OF SUMMONS as to Carolyn Grimaldi, re: 43 Amended Complaint,,,. Document filed by Guadalupe Alvarez, Linda Bergnes, Manuel Carvajal, Carlos Collazo, Marisol Cornielle, Jose Oriz Escobar, Rafael Fortich, Laura Gonzalez, Kimberly Hernandez, Roberto Isaza, Hoe Yen Lee, Arnold S. Lemus, Ronald E. Lopez, Julio Lucero, Luis R. Lugo, Edward C. Luk, Wanda Negron, New York Communities for Change, David B. Olson, Oscar Ore, Guadalupe Ornelas, Sandy Rand, Julio Rosa, Aleksandra Sagan, Glenys Saldana, Yanet Santiago, Michael Sofronas, Hector Tomasi, Teresa Venditto, Cynthia Viau..(Schwartz, Arthur) (Entered: 07/28/2023)

July 28, 2023

July 28, 2023

PACER
46

ELECTRONIC SUMMONS ISSUED as to Joseph A. Zayas. (vf) (Entered: 07/31/2023)

July 31, 2023

July 31, 2023

PACER
47

ELECTRONIC SUMMONS ISSUED as to Carolyn Grimaldi. (vf) (Entered: 07/31/2023)

July 31, 2023

July 31, 2023

PACER
48

AFFIDAVIT OF SERVICE of Summons and Amended Complaint,,,. Joseph A. Zayas served on 8/14/2023, answer due 9/5/2023. Service was accepted by Lisa Lutchmidat. Service was made by mail. Document filed by Oscar Ore; Guadalupe Alvarez; Yanet Santiago; Luis R. Lugo; Manuel Carvajal; Linda Bergnes; Edward C. Luk; Julio Lucero; Michael Sofronas; Glenys Saldana; Cynthia Viau; New York Communities for Change; David B. Olson; Arnold S. Lemus; Aleksandra Sagan; Rafael Fortich; Laura Gonzalez; Sandy Rand; Jose Oriz Escobar; Hoe Yen Lee; Julio Rosa; Teresa Venditto; Roberto Isaza; Marisol Cornielle; Kimberly Hernandez; Ronald E. Lopez; Carlos Collazo; Guadalupe Ornelas; Wanda Negron; Hector Tomasi..(Schwartz, Arthur) (Entered: 08/16/2023)

Aug. 16, 2023

Aug. 16, 2023

PACER
49

AFFIDAVIT OF SERVICE of Summons and Amended Complaint,,,. Carolyn Grimaldi served on 8/14/2023, answer due 9/5/2023. Service was accepted by James Williams. Service was made by mail. Document filed by Oscar Ore; Guadalupe Alvarez; Yanet Santiago; Luis R. Lugo; Manuel Carvajal; Linda Bergnes; Edward C. Luk; Julio Lucero; Michael Sofronas; Glenys Saldana; Cynthia Viau; New York Communities for Change; David B. Olson; Arnold S. Lemus; Aleksandra Sagan; Rafael Fortich; Laura Gonzalez; Sandy Rand; Jose Oriz Escobar; Hoe Yen Lee; Julio Rosa; Teresa Venditto; Roberto Isaza; Marisol Cornielle; Kimberly Hernandez; Ronald E. Lopez; Carlos Collazo; Guadalupe Ornelas; Wanda Negron; Hector Tomasi..(Schwartz, Arthur) (Entered: 08/16/2023)

Aug. 16, 2023

Aug. 16, 2023

PACER
50

LETTER addressed to Judge Ronnie Abrams from Steven A. Sutro dated 9/1/23 re: Second Amended Complaint. Document filed by New York State Unified Court System/Office of Court Administration. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit Exhibit A; State Complaint).(Sutro, Steven) (Entered: 09/01/2023)

Sept. 1, 2023

Sept. 1, 2023

PACER
51

MEMO ENDORSEMENT on re: 50 Letter, filed by New York State Unified Court System/Office of Court Administration. ENDORSEMENT: The Court denies Defendant's request to reject the Second Amended Complaint via this letter-motion, but grants Defendant's request for a three-week extension. Defendant shall have until September 26, 2023 to file a motion to dismiss. ( Motions due by 9/26/2023.) (Signed by Judge Ronnie Abrams on 9/5/2023) (ate) (Entered: 09/05/2023)

Sept. 5, 2023

Sept. 5, 2023

PACER
52

Extension of Time

Sept. 22, 2023

Sept. 22, 2023

PACER
53

Order on Motion for Extension of Time

Sept. 25, 2023

Sept. 25, 2023

PACER
54

Dismiss

Oct. 10, 2023

Oct. 10, 2023

PACER
55

Declaration in Support of Motion

Oct. 10, 2023

Oct. 10, 2023

PACER
56

Memorandum of Law in Support of Motion

Oct. 10, 2023

Oct. 10, 2023

PACER
57

Extension of Time to File Response/Reply

Nov. 8, 2023

Nov. 8, 2023

PACER
58

Order on Motion for Extension of Time to File Response/Reply

Nov. 9, 2023

Nov. 9, 2023

PACER
59

Extension of Time to File Response/Reply

Dec. 13, 2023

Dec. 13, 2023

PACER
60

Order on Motion for Extension of Time to File Response/Reply

Dec. 15, 2023

Dec. 15, 2023

PACER
61

Affidavit in Opposition to Motion

Dec. 20, 2023

Dec. 20, 2023

PACER
62

Memorandum of Law in Opposition to Motion

Dec. 20, 2023

Dec. 20, 2023

PACER
63

Memorandum of Law in Opposition to Motion

Dec. 20, 2023

Dec. 20, 2023

PACER
64

Reply Memorandum of Law in Support of Motion

Jan. 17, 2024

Jan. 17, 2024

PACER
65

Notice of Appearance

July 23, 2024

July 23, 2024

PACER
66

Substitute Attorney

July 23, 2024

July 23, 2024

PACER
67

Order on Motion to Substitute Attorney

July 24, 2024

July 24, 2024

PACER
68

OPINION & ORDER re: 54 MOTION to Dismiss the Second Amended Complaint. filed by Carolyn Grimaldi, Joseph A. Zayas. For the foregoing reasons, Defendants' motion to dismiss the Second Amended Complaint is granted. The Clerk of Court is respectfully directed to terminate the motion pending at Dkt. No. 54 and close this case. (Signed by Judge Ronnie Abrams on 8/12/2024) (tro) Transmission to Orders and Judgments Clerk for processing.

Aug. 12, 2024

Aug. 12, 2024

RECAP
69

CLERK'S JUDGMENT re: 68 Memorandum & Opinion in favor of Carolyn Grimaldi, Joseph A. Zayas against New York Communities for Change, Aleksandra Sagan, Arnold S. Lemus, Carlos Collazo, Cynthia Viau, David B. Olson, Edward C. Luk, Glenys Saldana, Guadalupe Alvarez, Guadalupe Ornelas, Hector Tomasi, Hoe Yen Lee, Jose Oriz Escobar, Julio Lucero, Julio Rosa, Kimberly Hernandez, Laura Gonzalez, Linda Bergnes, Luis R. Lugo, Manuel Carvajal, Marisol Cornielle, Michael Sofronas, Oscar Ore, Rafael Fortich, Roberto Isaza, Ronald E. Lopez, Sandy Rand, Teresa Venditto, Wanda Negron, Yanet Santiago. It is hereby ORDERED, ADJUDGED AND DECREED: That for the reasons stated in the Court's Opinion & Order dated August 12, 2024, Defendants' motion to dismiss the Second Amended Complaint is granted; accordingly, the case is closed. (Signed by Clerk of Court - Acting Daniel Ortiz on 8/13/2024) (Attachments: # 1 Appeal Package) (km) (Entered: 08/13/2024)

Aug. 13, 2024

Aug. 13, 2024

RECAP
70

NOTICE OF APPEAL from 68 Memorandum & Opinion,. Document filed by Guadalupe Alvarez, Linda Bergnes, Manuel Carvajal, Carlos Collazo, Marisol Cornielle, Jose Oriz Escobar, Rafael Fortich, Laura Gonzalez, Kimberly Hernandez, Roberto Isaza, Hoe Yen Lee, Arnold S. Lemus, Ronald E. Lopez, Julio Lucero, Luis R. Lugo, Edward C. Luk, Wanda Negron, New York Communities for Change, David B. Olson, Oscar Ore, Guadalupe Ornelas, Sandy Rand, Julio Rosa, Aleksandra Sagan, Glenys Saldana, Yanet Santiago, Michael Sofronas, Hector Tomasi, Teresa Venditto, Cynthia Viau. Filing fee $ 605.00, receipt number ANYSDC-29881049. Form C and Form D are due within 14 days to the Court of Appeals, Second Circuit..(Schwartz, Arthur) (Entered: 09/11/2024)

Sept. 11, 2024

Sept. 11, 2024

PACER

Appeal Record Sent to USCA - Electronic File

Sept. 12, 2024

Sept. 12, 2024

PACER

Transmission of Notice of Appeal and Docket Sheet to USCA

Sept. 12, 2024

Sept. 12, 2024

PACER

Transmission of Notice of Appeal and Certified Copy of Docket Sheet to US Court of Appeals re: 70 Notice of Appeal.(km)

Sept. 12, 2024

Sept. 12, 2024

PACER

Appeal Record Sent to USCA (Electronic File). Certified Indexed record on Appeal Electronic Files for 70 Notice of Appeal,, filed by Ronald E. Lopez, Roberto Isaza, Linda Bergnes, Edward C. Luk, Carlos Collazo, Guadalupe Ornelas, Wanda Negron, Teresa Venditto, Sandy Rand, Kimberly Hernandez, Julio Lucero, Oscar Ore, Manuel Carvajal, Cynthia Viau, Julio Rosa, Aleksandra Sagan, David B. Olson, Guadalupe Alvarez, Arnold S. Lemus, Yanet Santiago, Hoe Yen Lee, Jose Oriz Escobar, Glenys Saldana, Luis R. Lugo, New York Communities for Change, Michael Sofronas, Laura Gonzalez, Hector Tomasi, Rafael Fortich, Marisol Cornielle were transmitted to the U.S. Court of Appeals. (km)

Sept. 12, 2024

Sept. 12, 2024

PACER
71

USCA Mandate

June 13, 2025

June 13, 2025

PACER

Case Details

State / Territory: New York

Case Type(s):

Equal Employment

Key Dates

Filing Date: May 25, 2022

Case Ongoing: Yes

Plaintiffs

Plaintiff Description:

class of interpreters employed by the New York State Unified Court System and/or its administrative arm, the Office of Court Administration

Public Interest Lawyer: Yes

Filed Pro Se: No

Class Action Sought: Yes

Class Action Outcome: Pending

Defendants

Office of Court Administration Officials, Private Entity/Person

Officials, State

Defendant Type(s):

Jurisdiction-wide

Case Details

Causes of Action:

42 U.S.C. § 1983

Available Documents:

Trial Court Docket

Complaint (any)

Any published opinion

Outcome

Prevailing Party: None Yet / None

Nature of Relief:

None yet

Source of Relief:

None yet

Issues

Discrimination Area:

Pay / Benefits