Appelate Advocates

The Bronx Defenders is a pioneering organization that is redefining public defense by implementing the innovative Holistic Defense model of indigent defense. With funding from the U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance, they provide expert assistance and guidance to public defender offices across the country, helping them transition from traditional service models to a more client-centered and interdisciplinary approach. Through staff training, site visits, and concrete assistance, The Bronx Defenders aim to transform the way clients are represented and contribute to a more humane and just criminal justice system. As a project of The Bronx Defenders, the Center for Holistic Defense offers technical assistance to public defender offices, empowering them to integrate Holistic Defense into their practices. This innovative model, developed by The Bronx Defenders, focuses on connecting clients to the services they need and revolutionizing recruitment and hiring practices. With a commitment to knowledge, professionalism, and long-term partnerships, The Bronx Defenders and the Center for Holistic Defense are at the forefront of reshaping the landscape of public defense in the United States.Generated from the website

Advocates for Justice Chartered Attorneys is a public interest law firm based in New York City, dedicated to providing high-quality legal representation to regular working people. Their mission is to address the legal challenges faced by individuals and communities, ensuring that access to justice is not limited to corporations and the wealthy. With a client-centered and impact-driven approach, the firm represents individuals and groups in a variety of legal issues, including unfair credit practices, workplace discrimination, and environmental concerns. Their team comprises experienced principal attorneys and passionate associates committed to advocating for their clients and fostering positive change in the community. Generated from the website

Rich is a graduate of St. Johns University (B.A. 1979) and New York Law School (J.D. 1983), and has been in private practice since 1988. Prior to entering private practice, he was employed in the financial services industry for over 10 years in various capacities focusing in the areas of consumer credit and real estate financing.Each year since 2007, Rich has been privileged to receive a Peer Attorney Rating of AV (highest) from Martindale-Hubbell. This is based upon independent polling of attorneys by Martindale-Hubbell (not a paid advertisement). He has also been named as a Top Legal Eagle on Long Island each year since 2010 by Long Island Pulse Magazine.