How do I obtain certified copies of NYS law for use in a foreign legal proceeding?
I need a certified copy of New York's divorce statute to register my divorce overseas.
Answer
Some foreign countries may not have a particular law, but may recognize another country's law. For example, someone could be married in the Philippines, then divorced in NYC. The Philippines doesn't yet have a divorce law, but they seem to recognize foreign judgments of divorce once they are processed through a local court proceeding in the Philippines. A person who was married in the Philippines and then divorced their spouse in the US will be actively listed as married in the Philippines until that local proceeding is concluded.
If you need a certified copy of a New York statute for a foreign legal proceeding, the only place that can fulfill your request is the New York State Legislative Bill Drafting Commission (NYSLBDC). Please direct any requests or inquiries to Nadya Lawson, lawson@nylbdc.gov, or by mail:
Law Certification Services
NYS Legislative Bill Drafting Commission
55 Elk Street, Albany, NY 12210
Just remember that there will be fees involved, but that office is the one who can handle your request and determine those fees.
Please note that neither New York State law librarians not court or county clerks can authenticate or certify copies of local or state law.