Frequently Asked Questions


From his work as an Assistant Public Defender and Supervising Attorney at Legal Aid to presiding over life-changing decisions as a Court Attorney Referee, Darius has a well-rounded understanding of the challenges litigants face and how the system can better serve them.

Learn more about the roles that have prepared Darius to be an effective, compassionate, and fair Supreme Court Justice.

  • A court attorney referee in New York State is a quasi-judicial official who works with judges, providing legal advice and support: 

    • Responsibilities

      Referees may hear and decide cases, such as custody, visitation, and orders of protection. They may also conduct hearings, take testimony, and issue temporary and final orders. Referees research and analyze complex legal issues, and write confidential memoranda and opinions. They may also supervise court attorneys and support staff. 

    • Relationship to judges

      Judges assign referees to hear cases or portions of cases to speed up timelines. In some counties, referees report their findings to the judge, who makes the final decision. In other counties, referees can issue court orders themselves with both parents' consent. 

    • Powers

      Referees have all the powers of a court in performing a like function, but they cannot relieve themselves of their duties, appoint a successor, or adjudge any person except a witness guilty of contempt.

  • An Assistant Public Defender in New York State represents indigent defendants in criminal and family court proceedings. They work under the supervision of the Public Defender, but are given a lot of leeway to exercise their own judgment. 

    Responsibilities of an Assistant Public Defender include: 

    • Representing the defendant at all stages of the proceedings, from arrest through appeals

    • Assisting the Public Defender with investigations, preparation, and conduct of court proceedings

    • Preparing cases efficiently

    • Advising and counseling clients

    • Establishing and maintaining professional relationships with clients

    • Using investigators, mitigation specialists, and other support staff

    • Seeking assistance from experts

    • Demonstrating professional demeanor

    • Exercising sound judgment

    To become an Assistant Public Defender in New York State, you must: 

    • Graduate from an accredited law school

    • Have a New York Law License or have recently taken the NY Bar Exam

    • Pass a rigorous interview and oral examination

  • A Supreme Court Justice in New York State is a judicial officer who hears and decides legal matters involving:: 

    Civil Cases Involving Large Monetary Claims

    • Personal injury lawsuits

      • Medical malpractice

      • Breach of contract

      • Property damage and real estate disputes

    • Matrimonial (Family) Cases

      • Divorce proceedings

      • Child custody and support (as part of divorce cases)

      • Equitable distribution of marital property

    • Commercial Litigation

      • Complex business disputes (especially in the Commercial Division)

      • Breach of fiduciary duty

      • Corporate dissolution or shareholder disputes

    • Landlord-Tenant Matters (in some counties)

      • High-value or complex eviction and lease cases, typically involving commercial properties

    • Trusts and Estates Cases (in some instances)

      • Disputes over wills and estates

      • Guardianship proceedings

    • Foreclosure Actions

      • Residential and commercial mortgage foreclosures

    • Article 78 Proceedings

      • Challenges to decisions made by New York State or local government agencies

    • Criminal Cases (Felonies) in Certain Counties

      • Homicide

      • Robbery

      • Other serious offenses, typically in counties where the Supreme Court serves as the trial-level criminal court

  • The Seventh Judicial District of New York encompasses a region that includes several counties, primarily serving as a vital part of the New York state court system. This district includes the counties of Monroe, Ontario, Seneca, Wayne, Yates, Livingston, and Orleans. It is responsible for the administration of justice across various legal matters, including criminal, civil, family, and surrogate court cases.

    The district's courts are designed to ensure that legal proceedings are conducted fairly and efficiently. Each county within the Seventh Judicial District has its own court facilities, where judges preside over cases and administer justice in accordance with state laws. In addition to trial courts, the Seventh Judicial District also features appellate courts (the Fourth Department) Appellate Division), allowing for the review of decisions made in lower courts.

    Judges within the Seventh Judicial District are tasked with upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of all individuals involved in court proceedings. The district is equipped with resources and support services aimed at aiding both litigants and legal professionals in navigating the complexities of the judicial system. This district plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of the legal process in New York State.