New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A10408

Introduced
3/3/26  

Caption

Allows a party asserting a claim to discontinue an action without procedural delays when the discontinuance would benefit an unrepresented party and that party has not responded to a request to stipulate to a discontinuance in a reasonable period of time.

Impact

The implementation of A10408 could have significant implications for how civil cases are managed, particularly by facilitating faster resolutions without unnecessary encumbrances on unrepresented parties. This is particularly relevant given the growing need for reforms in the legal system to accommodate individuals who lack legal representation due to various socioeconomic factors. By allowing for an easier path to discontinuance in specific situations, this bill could improve access to justice and reduce the backlog of civil litigation in New York courts.

Summary

A10408 is a bill that seeks to amend the civil practice law and rules in New York, specifically regarding the discontinuance of actions in court. The bill allows a party asserting a claim to discontinue an action without having to go through procedural delays when the discontinuance would benefit an unrepresented party. This provision is especially relevant when the unrepresented party has not responded to a request to stipulate to a discontinuance within a reasonable timeframe. The goal of this bill is to streamline the civil procedure process and make it more accessible for individuals without legal representation.

Contention

Despite its intent to simplify legal proceedings for unrepresented parties, the bill could raise concerns among legal professionals regarding the potential for misuse. Critics may argue that allowing discontinuances without the unanimous consent of all parties could lead to unfair advantages or ethical dilemmas. Moreover, issues could arise related to ensuring that unrepresented parties have truly understood the implications of such a discontinuance, particularly when there is a risk of defendants inadvertently losing their claims or defenses without adequate legal counsel to advise them.

Companion Bills

NY S10076

Same As Allows a party asserting a claim to discontinue an action without procedural delays when the discontinuance would benefit an unrepresented party and that party has not responded to a request to stipulate to a discontinuance in a reasonable period of time.

Previously Filed As

NY S10076

Allows a party asserting a claim to discontinue an action without procedural delays when the discontinuance would benefit an unrepresented party and that party has not responded to a request to stipulate to a discontinuance in a reasonable period of time.

NY A02278

Requires pharmacies that are permanently discontinuing to notify customers of such discontinuance and provide information including locations of other nearby pharmacies.

NY S03393

Requires pharmacies that are permanently discontinuing to notify customers of such discontinuance and provide information including locations of other nearby pharmacies.

NY S2877

Requires advance written notice before discontinuance of State aid or services.

NY A4273

Requires advance written notice before discontinuance of State aid or services.

NY A06699

Relates to the rights of parties involved in foreclosure actions; relates to the effect of discontinuance of actions based upon certain instruments related to real property.

NY HB491

St. Mary's County - Metropolitan Commission - Discontinuance of Service

NY SB1219

Energy efficiency programs: discontinuance of administration.

NY A04058

Allows for the denial, suspension or discontinuance of public assistance or care where a person does not participate in three consecutive scheduled interviews with a social services official.

NY S2670

Prohibits electric, gas, or water public utility service discontinuances to residential customers during certain epidemics.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.