What do we owe the judges in our state, who uphold justice, fairness and meaningful access to an efficient court system for all New Yorkers? At the bare minimum, they should receive the same type of just and fair compensation that is any worker's presumed right. Now, an opportunity to ensure that they do is upon us.

This month, state court judges and advocates again are pleading their case for higher wages, as they have annually for nearly a decade, before the New York State Commission on Legislative, Judicial and Executive Compensation. I was proud to lend my voice last week when I testified before the commission on behalf of the New York State Trial Lawyers Association, speaking in favor of a much needed judicial pay raise.