A federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit filed by the U.S. Department of Justice challenging New York’s Protect Our Courts Act, according to a statement released by New York Attorney General Letitia James.
“Everyone deserves to seek justice without fear. Today’s decision ensures that anyone can use New York state courts without being pursued by federal authorities,” said Attorney General James. “My office will continue to fight to defend the dignity and rights of immigrant communities across New York.”
The Protect Our Courts Act was enacted in 2020 after Attorney General James secured a ruling that prevented the Trump administration from carrying out civil immigration arrests in and around New York courts. The law was designed to formalize these protections. In June 2025, the Department of Justice sought to overturn the law, but the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York ruled that no provision of federal immigration law overrides New York’s authority to protect access to its courts.
This ruling means that individuals can attend court proceedings in New York without concern over immigration-related civil arrests on courthouse grounds or nearby areas.
