The Suffolk County Criminal Justice Addiction Workgroup is excited to bring you: 

 AFTER THE ARREST: The Process through the Criminal System and             Post-Conviction Options

The program will explain the types of drug charges that come in the courthouse, the specialized courts/ programs available, and the certain post-conviction relief for the people so they are less stigmatized and can move forward in their lives.

We will look at the differences between violation, misdemeanors, and felonies; possession versus sales and possible penalties.  We will then give an overview of the different dispositional options and specialty courts and programs: CARE, Drug Court, TASC, JDP, Probation, Jail - SATP program.

We will then look at collateral consequences of the drug plea and possible relief for these charges post-conviction.  Options include Cerificates of Relief from Civil Disabilities, conditional sealing motions, and sealing motion.  We will talk about the process for applying for eligible relief and participants will learn about Breaking Barriers Pro Bono Project - helping clients to achieve this relief at no cost.

ABOUT THE PRESENTER: Elizabeth A. Justesen, Esq.

Elizabeth graduated magna cum laude from the dual degree MSW/JD program between Stony Brook School of Social Welfare and Touro Law Center in 2006. Elizabeth is currently the Community Outreach Director of the Legal Aid Society of Suffolk County, after ten years in the family and criminal court representing indigent clients.  She helped to develop and oversee the Social Work Bureau within the organization.  Elizabeth conducts numerous free, legal, community outreach programs educating community members in the various issues they confront in the court system including understanding CPS cases, custody, domestic violence, and knowing your criminal rights.  She works with Suffolk County Re-Entry Task Force, parole, New Hour, and a project called "Access to Justice". Elizabeth is also the supervising attorney for Breaking Barriers, a pro bono project at Touro Law School assisting persons with criminal conviction overcome barriers to emplyment and educational licenses.

Come join us and earn 3 free Social Work, Mental Health, CASAC/CPP/CPS hours! Credits are awaiting approval.