Legal Fees and Private Representation
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to hire your firm
Every case is unique. Legal fees depend on the complexity of the allegations, whether the case is in Family Court or Criminal Court, and the anticipated length of litigation.
What is included in the legal fee
Fees cover court appearances, case strategy, client meetings, document review, and negotiations.
Can I switch from a public defender to your firm
Yes. You have the right to retain private counsel at any stage of your case, subject to court approval where required.
What happens if my case goes to trial
If a trial becomes necessary, we will clearly explain any additional fees associated with extended preparation and trial representation.
Is hiring a private OCFS lawyer worth it
Because ACS cases can affect custody, parental rights, and your future, many clients view experienced private representation as an important investment in protecting their family and reputation.
Contact Us
The Law Offices of Michael S. Discioarro, LLC is a private law firm representing individuals and families accused of abuse or neglect by the New York City Administration for Children’s Services. Our firm is retained privately, and legal fees must be paid before we can appear in your ACS matter. We do not accept 18B panel assignments through the New York City Assigned Counsel Plan, and we do not handle cases through legal aid organizations.
Court-Appointed Lawyers and Public Defenders
In New York City, parents who cannot afford private counsel may qualify for a free ACS public defender through organizations such as The Legal Aid Society or other assigned counsel programs. These attorneys provide an important public service and represent thousands of individuals each year in Family Court and criminal proceedings.
However, public defenders and assigned counsel attorneys often manage extremely high caseloads. Heavy workloads limit the amount of time available for in-depth investigation, strategic motion practice, and frequent client communication. While many court appointed attorneys are dedicated professionals, the reality of limited resources may affect the level of individualized attention your case receives.
The Advantage of Private Counsel
When you retain a private OCFS defense lawyer, you are investing in focused, strategic representation tailored to your specific situation. Our firm limits its caseload so that we can dedicate substantial time to:
Conducting independent investigations
Reviewing ACS records and evidence in detail
Preparing witnesses and expert testimony
Filing motions to dismiss or suppress improper evidence
Developing a comprehensive defense strategy
Allegations of child abuse have life-changing consequences, including court-ordered supervision, removal of children from your home, and placement on the State Central Register. These cases demand careful preparation and aggressive advocacy.
Private representation allows us to devote the attention, preparation, and courtroom advocacy your family deserves. If you are facing an ACS investigation or Article 10 proceeding, securing experienced private counsel early in the process will make a meaningful difference in the outcome of your case.