Judge Edwin I. Novillo was appointed as an Interim Civil Court Judge for the City of New York in February of 2018, by Mayor Bill de Blasio. With this appointment, Judge Novillo made history as he became the first individual of Ecuadorian descent to be appointed to serve as a member of the judiciary by a New York City Mayor. In January of 2019, Mayor Bill de Blasio reappointed Judge Novillo to the bench, this time as a Judge of the Criminal Court of the City of New York.
From February of 2018 to January of 2021, Judge Novillo dutifully presided over thousands of cases in Kings County Criminal Court. In January of 2021, he transferred to Queens County Criminal Court, his home county. He currently presides over a wide array of hearings, trials, and the majority of the unindicted felonies in Queens County. His passion for upholding the law and ensuring fairness resonates in every decision he renders.
Judge Novillo’s academic journey embodies excellence and dedication. He achieved the highest honors as he graduated summa cum laude from the City University of New York’s John Jay College of Criminal Justice. Further advancing his legal acumen, he earned his J.D. from Touro College, Jacob D. Fuchsberg Law Center. Throughout his time in law school, Judge Novillo’s commitment to public service was recognized. He was awarded two prestigious Public Interest Fellowships. These accolades paved the way for him to contribute to The Legal Aid Society’s Criminal Defense Practice, where he served as both an Investigative Intern and a Legal Intern.
Following his graduation from law school, he commenced his legal career as a Staff Attorney with The Legal Society’s Criminal Defense Practice in Kings County, where he remained until August of 2005. From August of 2005 until February of 2018, he practiced law as a Senior Staff Attorney in the Queens trial office of The Legal Aid Society’s Criminal Defense Practice. During this time, he served as a litigator and advocate, representing approximately 9000 indigent litigants.
Judge Novillo’s dedication and service to his community have been recognized through numerous accolades. In 2014, he was honored with the Distinguished Citizen Award by the Ecuadorian Consulate, highlighting his profound commitment to public service. Similarly, in 2022, the Nassau County Executive presented him with a citation, acknowledging his unwavering service and contributions to the community. These recognitions affirm Judge Novillo’s continuous efforts and lasting impact on the lives of those he serves.
Judge Novillo actively serves as an Advisory Board Member for The Latino Lawyers Association of Queens County, contributing to the advancement of legal representation and support for the Latino community. In addition to being a Board Member of the Latino Judges Association, he holds memberships in organizations such as the Association of Judges of the Criminal Court of the City of New York, the Queens County Bar Association, the Queens County Women’s Bar Association, and the Puerto Rican Bar Association. In addition to his professional affiliations, Judge Novillo volunteers his time and efforts for the “Brigada de Esperanza N.Y.” (The Brigade of Hope), where he helps distribute food to indigent members of his community.
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