Chambers of Honorable Lewis A. Kaplan – New York, NY

Chambers of Honorable Lewis A. Kaplan

The Chambers of Honorable Lewis A. Kaplan are located within the Daniel Patrick Moynihan United States Courthouse at 500 Pearl Street in Lower Manhattan. Judge Kaplan is a Senior United States District Judge for the Southern District of New York (SDNY), one of the most active and influential federal courts in the nation. Appointed in 1994, Judge Kaplan presides over a wide array of high-profile civil and criminal cases, contributing significantly to federal jurisprudence.

Judicial Functions

As a Senior District Judge, Judge Kaplan manages a docket of complex litigation. His chambers are responsible for scheduling conferences, reviewing motions, and conducting trials. The SDNY has jurisdiction over cases involving federal law, including securities fraud, terrorism, civil rights, and major commercial disputes. Attorneys appearing before Judge Kaplan are expected to adhere strictly to his individual rules of practice, which govern everything from the formatting of motion papers to courtroom decorum.

Courtroom Decorum and Security

The Daniel Patrick Moynihan Courthouse is a secure federal facility. Visitors attending proceedings in Judge Kaplan’s courtroom must pass through rigorous airport-style security screening. The court maintains a strict policy regarding electronic devices; mobile phones, cameras, and recording equipment are generally prohibited for the public and must be secured before entering the courtroom area. Professional business attire is required for all attorneys and litigants appearing before the court.

• Federal Jurisdiction: Presides over cases in the Southern District of New York.
• Case Management: Handles civil and criminal federal matters.
• Strict Compliance: Enforces specific individual rules for litigation conduct.

Parties wishing to communicate with chambers should consult the SDNY local rules. Direct telephone communication is typically restricted to emergencies, with most procedural questions directed to the Courtroom Deputy or answered via the ECF (Electronic Case Filing) system.