Six decades of partnership
Our Panel of experienced private attorneys represents clients in criminal, family, appellate, and other assigned matters, providing effective advocacy at every stage of the legal process. We are commonly referred to as the “18b” Program because that is the section of County Law Section 722 which created Assigned Counsel Programs in New York State.
The 18b Office is comprised of an Administrator, a Deputy Administrator, and multiple support staff who are responsible for all administrative aspects of the NCBA ACDP including, but not limited to, vetting applicants to the various Panels, fielding questions and concerns from the public, the Courts, and the County, ensuring the attorneys receive timely payment for their work, and screening and selecting experts to serve on our Expert Panel. But we do so much more than administer a list of assigned attorneys.
We are a professional community dedicated to supporting attorneys, strengthening public defense, and helping ensure that every client receives the exceptional representation they deserve.
Supporting Exceptional Advocacy
Quality representation requires more than legal knowledge. It requires preparation, collaboration, compassion, and access to the right resources.
Our role extends well beyond assigning attorneys to staff different Court parts and processing their vouchers for payment. We invest in the attorneys who serve our community by providing the tools, training, and support necessary to meet the complex needs of today’s clients.
Through continuing legal education, mentorship, second-chair opportunities, trial-skills development, practical resources, and access to investigators, experts, interpreters, social workers, and other professionals, we help attorneys build stronger cases and deliver more effective representation.
By fostering collaboration and encouraging professional growth, we strengthen both individual advocates and the quality of representation throughout Nassau County.
Understanding the whole person
Behind every assigned case is a person, a family, and a future.
Many individuals entering the justice system face challenges that extend beyond the Courtroom, including mental health concerns, substance use disorders, housing instability, trauma, or other barriers that affect their lives and legal outcomes.
We believe effective advocacy begins with understanding the whole person.
By supporting attorneys with multidisciplinary resources and encouraging client-centered representation, we help ensure that legal advocacy addresses not only the legal issues before the Court but also the circumstances that brought clients there.
Representation grounded in dignity, respect, and compassion leads to stronger outcomes for clients, families, and our community.
Cultivating the next generation
The strength of any assigned counsel plan depends upon the strength of its attorneys.
We are committed to cultivating the next generation of skilled advocates while supporting experienced practitioners throughout their careers.
From mentoring new Panel members and expanding Courtroom experience to providing meaningful educational programming and practical guidance, we strive to create an environment where attorneys can continue learning, collaborating, and growing professionally.
Our investment in attorney development is ultimately an investment in every client they serve.
Improving how we serve
The legal profession is constantly evolving, and so are we.
We continually seek new ways to improve our services through innovation, education, technology, and collaboration.
Whether implementing new systems, expanding professional resources, or developing programs that enhance attorney support, our goal remains the same: to strengthen the quality of assigned representation in Nassau County.
We are proud to serve the Courts, our Panel attorneys, and, most importantly, the individuals and families who depend upon the constitutional promise of meaningful representation.
What we bring to every assignment
Exceptional Attorneys
A carefully vetted and selected Panel committed to excellence in public defense.
Professional Development
CLE programs, mentoring, second-chair opportunities, and ongoing training to strengthen advocacy.
Multidisciplinary Support
Access to investigators, experts, interpreters, mitigation specialists, social workers, and other professionals.