By Donald J. Farole, Jr.
This study reports the results of a representative random survey of 1,002 adult residents of New York State concerning their perceptions of the courts. The study found that New Yorkers have high levels of trust and confidence in the courts in general, although racial and ethnic minorities, particularly African-Americans, are far less supportive than are whites. The study also determined, however, that most New Yorkers have little knowledge of how their local courts work, suggesting a possible role for judicial outreach and public education. The survey was administered by the Marist College Institute for Public Opinion.