Noach Dear (November 20, 1953 – April 19, 2020) was an American attorney, Democratic politician, and jurist who served New York City and New York State in elected office for decades. He built a public career that moved from municipal lawmaking to the state trial bench, representing Brooklyn communities and later presiding as a justice of the New York Supreme Court.

Overview

Dear combined legal training and local political experience. He spent almost two decades on the New York City Council before seeking judicial office. His time on the bench included service as a Civil Court judge and, subsequently, as an Acting and then permanent justice of the New York Supreme Court, the state trial-level court with broad civil and criminal jurisdiction.

Political career

First elected to the New York City Council in 1983, Dear served continuously until 2001. During this period he represented Brooklyn neighborhoods and worked on municipal policy, constituent services, and local governance. His council tenure spanned multiple administrations and reflected a focus on neighborhood-level concerns and the needs of his constituents.

Judicial career

After practicing law and engaging in public service, Dear was elected a Civil Court judge in 2008. He became an Acting Supreme Court Justice in 2010 and was appointed or elected as a permanent justice in 2015. In those roles he handled a range of trial matters that the New York Supreme Court typically hears, including civil litigation and other trial-court responsibilities.

Legacy and death

Dear was born in New York City and spent his career serving its residents and institutions. He remained a visible public figure in Brooklyn politics and the local judiciary. Noach Dear died in New York City on April 19, 2020, at age 66; his death was attributed to complications of COVID-19. Contemporary accounts noted his long public service and the transition from legislative office to the judiciary.

Key facts

  • Born November 20, 1953, in New York City.
  • Member of the New York City Council, 1983–2001.
  • Elected Civil Court judge in 2008; Acting Supreme Court Justice in 2010; permanent Supreme Court Justice in 2015.
  • Affiliated with the Democratic Party.

For further reading about his career and rulings, consult local news archives and official court biographies that document judges' public records and judicial service.