New York court officials Tuesday approved raising to $500,000 the amount required for disputes to be adjudicated in Manhattan’s Commercial Division, marking the first time since 2009 the amount has been increased.

The order, signed by Chief Administrative Judge A. Gail Prudenti, takes effect Feb. 17. It’s expected to reduce the judges’ docket size in the Commercial Division in Manhattan by roughly 20 percent, enabling more time and attention to be given to each case.