Queens Defenders attorneys have not let the pandemic stop them from advocating for their clients. From the moment offices and courts closed in March, our attorneys adjusted to virtual practices and did not skipped a beat. Arraignments, hearings, and court appearances were held via Skype while all parties participated safely from home.
COVID-19 posed a serious risk to our clients both on Rikers Island and in their home communities, and our team prioritized the health and safety of our clients from the beginning of the pandemic. Since March, Queens Defenders has fought for — and won — the release of nearly 200 of our clients from Rikers Island who were most at risk of contracting COVID-19. Throughout the last six months, our attorneys continued to go above and beyond — from delivering clothing to clients and their families to raising money to pay their utility bills so that they could remain in their homes.
With courts opening up, Queens Defenders is working to ensure the safety of our staff, our clients, and their families. We will continue to provide zealous advocacy to our clients whether it is virtually or in-person.