From Civil Court to Supreme Court: Brooklyn’s Jill Epstein sworn in

Judge Jill Epstein was officially sworn in as the newest member of the New York State Supreme Court during a celebratory ceremony held Jan. 11 at Gargiulo’s Restaurant in Coney Island.

Epstein, a Sheepshead Bay resident, took the oath of office administered by Kings County Supreme Court Justice Genine Edwards, marking a significant milestone in her legal career and years of public service within the Kings County court system.

Brooklyn Democratic Party Chair Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn poses with newly sworn-in New York State Supreme Court Justice Jill Epstein during her swearing-in ceremony Jan. 11 at Gargiulo’s Restaurant in Coney Island.Photo by Arthur de Gaeta

The event drew a large crowd of friends, family members, elected officials, fellow jurists and community leaders. The Coney Island venue served as the backdrop for multiple of Epstein’s swearing-ins.

Before her Supreme Court appointment, Epstein served as a New York City Civil Court Judge in the 2nd Municipal District, a position she assumed in 2019. In the past, she has been involved in civil rights law and general litigation, among others.

During her tenure on the Civil Court bench, she presided over a wide range of cases impacting everyday New Yorkers. In August 2025, she was nominated for her current position, with endorsements from the Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties. She currently presides over foreclosure proceedings.

Family, friends, electeds and other community members were present for the swearing in.Photo by Arthur de Gaeta

Among those in attendance was Council Member Mercedes Narcisse, who wrote on Facebook that she was “proud to support her election to the bench, and it was great to see so many Brooklyn judges come together to show their support. Wishing Justice Epstein continued success as she serves our borough.”

The Brooklyn Conservative Party added its congratulations to Epstein, saying she “received support from both parties.”