Domestic Violence Law Series: Assisting Victims Who Are Clients (Part One)

New York’s response to domestic violence provides options for victims, but at the same time limits those options in important ways. This program will present an overview of how domestic violence is defined in NYS statutes, and what legal options are available to victims who seek legal relief. NYS criminal and civil options for victims will be explained, as well as how the two systems may interact in specific cases. Limitations of these options will be discussed. Practice tips for determining the best ways to get relief for clients will be provided.

Bail reform in New York State has been controversial, for many reasons. Many, however, don’t have a good understanding of the outlines of this reform, and the subsequent amendments to the bail reform statutes enacted in the 2020/2021 NYS budget. Domestic violence crimes have been particularly affected by these reforms. This program will provide an overview of what bail reform looks like currently, how recent changes improved the ability to respond to domestic violence, and the ways the laws can be used to enhance safety for victims of domestic violence.