New York Consolidated Laws, Family Court Act - FCT § 124. Eligibility for appointment

No person, other than one who holds such office at the effective date of this act, may assume the office of judge of the family court within the city of New York unless he has been admitted to practice law in this state at least ten years prior to the date of such appointment.  In making such appointments, the mayor of the city of New York shall select persons who are especially qualified for the court's work by reason of their character, personality, tact, patience and common sense.