Jose Padilla

Terrible judge.

I am astonished by the accuracy of previous comments regarding this judge. I attended court for a small claims case against the city where the court clerk suggested that both myself and the city attorney attempt to reach a settlement outside. I welcomed this suggestion, especially considering it was an unpaid wages case in small claims. However, the city attorney, despite being sent as representation, had no authority to act on behalf of the city and needed to consult with their supervisor. Furthermore, the opposing counsel for the city appeared before the judge unprepared, lacking knowledge of the case and basic New York law, and failed to bring any documents to court. The judge rightfully criticized this lack of preparation. Despite these glaring issues, the judge refused to hear the case and introduced a technicality that had no basis in the complaint, defense, or New York law. Essentially, the judge manufactured a reason to avoid hearing the case altogether, despite my attempts to explain that his reasoning was unfounded and that the court was the appropriate venue. Instead of addressing these concerns, he persisted in denying the case and issued a postponement (which apparently he does all the time with other cases "lazy".) Experiences like this truly shake one's faith in the judicial process. It's worth noting that the judge listed on my court paperwork four months prior was not the one presiding over my case, indicating disorganization within the court system, arbitrators were also not available. Additionally, the judge's reliance on his court attorney whispering in his ear and typing on his computer throughout the proceedings struck me as highly unprofessional. As someone who doesn't live in NYC, I incurred significant travel expenses for trains, etc., and wasted an entire day due to the judge's "in-actions." I intend to file a formal complaint with the New York Commission of Judicial Conduct, as I believe the judge's actions, or lack thereof, were oppres

I appeared in the pre-trial part 5 times and finally got an assignment to a judge for trial. I had my witness present as did my adversary. We were both ready to go given that we had conferenced the case numerous times. We were assigned to Judge Padilla. He asked to look at the complaint. The allegations in the complaint were plead in general terms. Our discovery specified the claims and the proof. Padilla insisted we could not go forward the plaintiff would have to make a motion to amend his complaint. I argued that I should be able to present my case and if necessary move to conform the pleadings to the proof. I don't think he knew what the meant. He sent us all home. It was clear to me he is lazy and had no intention of conducting a trial that day. It would have taken a few hours at most. He's a horrible judge who refuses to make an effort. I was disgusted.