Brooklyn attorney Albert Elia, alongside the National Federation of the Blind - New York, has initiated a federal lawsuit against the New York State Unified Court System, alleging discrimination against blind individuals during jury service. Filed on March 25, the lawsuit claims that exclusionary practices violate federal civil rights laws. Elia, who was barred from deliberating due to his blindness and the court's assumption about his abilities, argues that such discrimination not only affects him but also denies a fair jury representation for defendants. The case calls for necessary changes in practices concerning jury service for blind individuals.
Elia stated, "This unlawful exclusion not only deprived me of the honor and duty of jury service, it also deprives those facing criminal charges a grand jury composed of a fair cross-section of New Yorkers."
Mark Riccobono emphasized that blind individuals are capable of evaluating evidence, arguing that the court system's practices must change to meet the needs of all jurors.
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