TOMPKINS COUNTY, NY (WENY) -- A local attorney has launched a campaign for New York State Supreme Court Justice.

Diedre Hay has been an attorney since 1990, and a member of the New York State bar for 25 years. She currently runs her own law practice in Tompkins County, and ha also taught at Cornell Law School this year. 

Hay is running for state supreme court justice in the 6th judicial district, which covers Broome, Chemung, Chenango, Cortland, Delaware, Madison, Otsego, Schuyler, Tioga and Tompkins counties. The state Supreme Court primarily decides civil cases, ranging from divorce, property law, to personal injury and medical malpractice, among other legal matters.

“On a bench where 30% of the cases are contested divorces, my litigation experience and life experiences are particularly helpful. I have been married for 25 years and have three children, including a special needs son,” said Hay. “Sometimes hard decisions need to be made when following the law, but those decisions can be made while allowing the parties their dignity and their chance to be heard.” 

Supreme Court justices are elected to a 14 year term, with a mandatory retirement age of 76.

To lean more about Hay, visit her campaign website.