Frequently Asked Questions

Darius is the only candidate with experience representing all parties in the family court system—parents, children, and the court itself as a Court Attorney Referee.

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 families 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 Family Court Judge.

  • 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 family court judge in New York State is a judicial officer who hears and decides legal matters involving children and families: 

    • Case types

      Family court judges handle a variety of cases, including child abuse and neglect, child custody and visitation, domestic violence, juvenile delinquency, paternity, and child support 

    • Hearing process

      Family court judges conduct hearings, listen to witnesses, and examine evidence to decide cases 

    • Selection

      Family court judges are nominated by their local parties and elected by voters in the counties they serve. In New York City, the mayor appoints family court judges 

    • Support magistrates

      Family court judges may review decisions made by support magistrates. Support magistrates' decisions can be appealed by filing an objection