As New Yorkers gear up for one of the most talked-about mayoral elections in recent memory, Judge Claudia DePeyster is reminding Brooklyn voters not to overlook another key part of the ballot: local judicial races.
Early Voting Begins October 25 Across New York City
DePeyster, who is running for Kings County Supreme Court, said these elections have a direct impact on families, neighborhoods, and the justice system itself.
“There is so much focus on the mayoral race — and rightfully so — but we must remember that the judges you elect are the ones who preside over decisions that affect your families, your children, your safety, your housing, and your communities,” Judge DePeyster said. “In this political climate, local judicial races matter more than ever.”
A Brooklyn-Born Leader with Deep Legal Roots
Judge DePeyster was born and raised in Brooklyn to Guyanese parents. She graduated from Midwood High School before going on to earn her law degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Her legal career spans more than two decades. She began as a solo practitioner and later served in numerous roles with the NYPD, going from Agency Attorney to Assistant Deputy Commissioner.
DePeyster was appointed to the bench in 2015 by then-Mayor Bill de Blasio. She has since served in Kings County Criminal Court, and since 2022, she has served as Acting Supreme Court Justice. Judge DePeyster currently presides over the felony part and the gun part in Brooklyn’s Supreme Court.
Appointed to the bench in 2015 by then-Mayor Bill de Blasio, DePeyster has since served in Kings County Criminal Court and, since 2022, as an Acting Supreme Court Justice. She currently presides over felony and gun cases in Brooklyn’s Supreme Court.
Advocating for Youth and Community Engagement
Beyond the courtroom, DePeyster is known for her dedication to Brooklyn’s youth. She frequently visits high schools to discuss legal careers, leads courthouse tours, and mentors students through community programs.
“Whether it’s a young person’s future, a tenant’s right to housing, a survivor seeking justice, or a family navigating legal hardship, these cases are heard in courts overseen by judges elected by the people,” she said. “Your vote determines who sits on that bench.”
DePeyster also serves on the boards of the Judicial Friends Association and the Metropolitan Black Bar Association, is active in St. Paul Community Baptist Church, and is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.
Election Information
Early voting starts on October 25 and runs through November 2, with Election Day set for November 4. Voters can find polling locations and more information at Vote.NYC.
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