Annaleigh Porter has been appointed as a judge to the Cayuga Nation Tribal Court, bringing extensive experience in both criminal and civil matters to her new role.
The Cayuga Nation operates under sovereign authority, with its court system empowered to adjudicate civil, criminal, and family disputes within the Nation’s jurisdiction. The court, guided by independent judges, ensures impartial resolution of conflicts, with criminal cases handled through bench or jury trials. Appellate proceedings are overseen by a separate judge of equal standing.
Porter’s background includes significant experience as a Title IX Hearing Officer, where she presided over complex cases of sexual assault and harassment with fairness and impartiality. Her legal career spans high-stakes criminal and civil cases across state and federal courts, providing her with a strong foundation for her new responsibilities.
In addition to her legal expertise, Porter is actively involved in public service. She is a past president of the Central New York Women’s Bar Association, serves on the Board of Directors for Syracuse’s Downtown YMCA, and mentors attorneys through Onondaga County’s Assigned Counsel Program. She has also volunteered with PEACE, Inc., and was recognized as a former Big Sister of the Year.
Porter will join Judge Joseph Fahey in presiding over the Cayuga Nation Tribal Court. While Porter will primarily oversee family court matters, she will also manage cases across all areas of the court’s jurisdiction. Judge Fahey, an inaugural member of the court, previously served as a County Court judge. The appellate division is led by Judge Edward Carni, a former justice of the New York State Appellate Division, Fourth Department.
Porter’s appointment marks a significant addition to the Cayuga Nation Tribal Court as it continues to strengthen its judiciary system and uphold justice within the Nation’s sovereign framework.
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