NEW YORK, NY July 09, 2009 —Governor Paterson says his new lieutenant governor won't immediately preside over a special Senate session, because pending legal action has muddied the situation.

REPORTER: Appearing with Richard Ravitch today, Paterson acknowledged that the Constitution is not crystal clear on his authority to appoint a lieutenant governor.

PATERSON: But we are ready to stand any court action, to demonstrate to the court that this is a legal, constitutional appointment.

REPORTER: Paterson says a Nassau county judge's injunction against the appointment, secured by Republicans overnight, came after Ravitch was sworn in, and also says only Albany courts have jurisdiction over such matters.

Ravitch, a veteran of several political and financial crises in New York, avoided legal questions at this morning's news conference, saying only he's ready to help in any way he can.

RAVITCH: There are certainly problems that this current legislature imposes that I have had no prior experiences dealing with. But I've always found that the process ultimately works.

REPORTER: Ravitch stressed that he will quote "never" be a candidate for elective office.