Ed. Note: The opinions expressed in this article do not represent the policy or position of the New York State Bar Association or any of its sections or committees. The U.S. Supreme Court’s decision on gun carrying rights,1 NYS Rifle v. Bruen, has required major revisions in New York’s venerable licensing law for carrying concealed firearms in … Continued

On a Saturday morning in January, as the Association’s Annual Meeting neared its close, the Criminal Justice Section placed a spotlight on myriad issues surrounding mental health. The discussions served to educate the attendees on the significant strides our courts are making to improve the mental well-being of justice involved individuals. The World Health Organization … Continued

In the fall of 2003, the first issue of the Association’s New York Criminal Law Newsletter was published. The Newsletter was the immediate predecessor to our NY Criminal Justice Section Reporter. The editor, my immediate predecessor, was Spiros Tsimbinos, who passed away on January 10 of this year. This issue is dedicated to Spiros, who would have been 81 years … Continued

The practice of criminal law has changed dramatically over the past several years. A combination of the COVID-19 pandemic mixed with the complexity of criminal cases has shifted the practice of law away from in-person, collegial, court-centered exhilaration to mundane, time-crunched, expansive, administrative priorities. The thrill and adrenaline of practicing criminal law has waned, discouraging … Continued

The New York State Criminal Justice Section of NYSBA notes with sadness the death of Klaus Eppler, at age 93, on January 30, 2024. Klaus was an active member of the New York State Bar Association throughout his professional life. While we in the Criminal Justice Section often point to our roster of defense counsel, … Continued

Introduction Lawyers are pulled in opposite directions by ethics law governing their relations with clients. On one hand, ethics principles require counsel to consult with clients about their objectives and the means used to attain these objectives. Conversely, criminal defense lawyers must exercise independent judgement—sometimes in opposition to their clients’ directions or opinions —when it … Continued

On Saturday, January 20, members of the Criminal Justice Section gathered for the Annual Meeting Awards Luncheon at the New York Hilton. Once again, the section had the opportunity to recognize the achievements of some of the most valued members of the criminal justice community. The luncheon was well-attended, with large contingents from both Erie … Continued