About one third of CFR clients face a criminal case based on the same allegation that brought them to Family Court. Rather than treating these matters separately, CFR’s criminal defense team offers expert advocacy and representation that serves the client’s best interests in both cases.
We are one of few organizations in New York City who offers these holistic services because we understand the impact that a criminal case can have on our clients’ Family Court cases.Â
Our criminal defense team works closely with our family defense team to ensure that their advocacy in criminal court supports the same goals as a client’s Family Court case. This could be on decisions as crucial as whether bail should be set or if an order of protection should be granted, which may impact the client in Family Court.Â
When parents are able to avoid jail, they can have visits with their children and participate in services like counseling that help to facilitate faster family reunification—keeping more families together.
We will provide you with specialized representation and support if you are facing a potential criminal investigation or prosecution as a result of a family policing system investigation.
We will speak with you and your family or youth defense team on any criminal investigations that may lead to an arrest. Consulting before an arrest allows us to build the strongest possible defense for you. We will also invoke your right to remain silent and seek counsel before police question you. In many situations, this can prevent a criminal prosecution from ever happening.Â
If law enforcement intends to make an arrest, we will work with you to arrange a voluntary surrender. We will walk you through the booking process and appear with you at the arraignment, doing so with extensive knowledge about you and your situation. This allows us to educate the court and effectively advocate for your release. We are also available to take over your case if it is after your arraignment.Â
Our criminal defense team has a deep understanding of the various court systems and will represent you in Criminal or Supreme Court. Our team has decades of experience representing clients on both misdemeanor and felony cases across multiple boroughs.
We will always make decisions in partnership with you and will be communicating frequently throughout the entire process so you understand all potential outcomes. Once a decision on your case has been made, we will help you figure out next steps for you and your family.
Learn more about the common terms we use at CFR and why we choose to use certain language like the family policing system instead of the child welfare system in order to accurately reflect the reality that thousands of Black and Brown families experience every day.
See All Terms
Our team consists of attorneys, social workers, and parent advocates who have been through the systems themselves. Together, we fight alongside our clients for a future where every family can live free from surveillance and raise their children with self-determination.
The entire CFR staff treated me like family and did so much for me. With CFR's help, I got back on my feet and regained my hope...thank you CFR for your assistance! Watch Aminullah's Story
I didn't have the resources for someone to defend me, they wouldn't let me see my wife or children, I had no idea what I was going to face... I would like to thank the CFR team for welcoming me and guiding me through this process. Watch Juan's Story