Every 20 years voters decide if a Constitutional Convention should be held to propose changes in the New York State Constitution.

A Constitutional Convention is the only way to make changes in the face of Albany’s legislative paralysis and to focus state government on solving the problems facing society today. The voters decide whether to call it, who will represent them, and whether to adopt the Convention’s recommendations.

Our expert panel will focus on the two key issues that are likely to be discussed in any Convention -- the judiciary and criminal justice.

Hear about the significant reforms to the judicial system that have previously been adopted and an overview of the issues that still need to be addressed, such as: the structure of the judicial system and whether it is too complex; whether the retirement age for judges should be changed; and whether judges should be selected or appointed.

Then learn about some of the major criminal justice reforms which have historically expanded the rights of defendants adopted by prior convention before the panel tackles two key aspects of the hot button issue of criminal justice reform -- the age of majority for criminal cases and the use of solitary confinement.

The key issues will be hotly debated by our panel of experts and the interactive discussion will include a question and answer session with the audience.