The Consequences of Criminal Charges: A People's Guide This manual provides basic information about some of the many consequences of criminal charges,
arrest, and incarceration in New York State. You will find information and materials geared towards helping you understand these consequences and strategies for preventing or overcoming them. Subtopics covered include: Encounters With the Police, Civic Participation (including voting rights and jury service), Employment, Family, Public Benefits, Student Loans, Financial Impact, Housing, Immigration, Criminal Records, and Certificates of Rehabilitation.
By: Bronx Defenders and Reentry.net/NY
Reentry Readiness Manual
(Separate Website)
This manual ask ten questions that help determine if an individual is adequately prepared for a successful community reentry and provides guidance on how to be better prepared.
By: Center for Behavioral Services and Criminal Justice Research at Rutgers University
Beyond Going Home: From Reentry to Reintegration Provides tips on successful reintegration after release from prison. It highlights essential steps for a successful reentry including establishing a positive relationship with Parole officer; building positive relationships; getting involved in community activities; and meeting the challenge of obtaining employment.
By: Center for Community Alternatives
Certificates to Demonstrate Rehabilitation: Why They are So Important and How to Get Them Guide that details why certificates are so important, what each one does, eligibility, how to obtain a certificate, and helpful tips. Also includes a chart on automatic disqualifications for public housing.
By: The Bronx Defenders' Civil Action Project
Certificates of Relief from Disabilities and Certificates of Good Conduct: What You Can Do About Criminal Convictions When Looking for Work
(Separate Website)
This guides individuals with criminal histories through the process of obtaining specific New York State certificates that can be helpful in overcoming barriers to employment that may exist because of a criminal conviction.
By: Legal Action Center of the City of New York, Inc. (LAC)
Certificates of Relief, Good Conduct, and Disposition One-page info sheet on applying for Certificates, with process for each borough on NYC.
By: Community Service Society
Application for Certificate of Relief from Disabilities or Certificate of Good Conduct from the NYS Board of Parole
(Separate Website)
This application must be filled out and mailed to the Division of Parole in order to receive a Certificate of Relief from Disabilities or a Certificate of Good Conduct.
By: New York State Division of Parole
Certificates of Relief From Disabilities and Certificates of Good Conduct Licensure and Employment of Offenders
(Separate Website)
This is a question and answer document from New York State regarding how to obtain certificates of relief and certificates of good conduct.
By: New York State Division of Probation and Correctional Alternatives
Application for Certificate of Relief from Disabilities from the Sentencing Court
(Separate Website)
This application must be filled out and given to the sentencing judge in order to receive a Certificate of Relief from Disabilities from the court of sentencing at any time after the sentencing.
By: New York State Division of Probation and Correctional Alternatives
Criminal - FAQs
(Separate Website)
Explains how to apply for a Certificate of Relief from Disabilities in Bronx County, including where to file the application.
By: New York State Unified Court System
Sample Letter Explaining the Importance of a Certificate of Relief from Disabilities A letter to use when applying for a job, a license or housing that explains the importance of a Certificate of Relief from Disabilities.
By: Center for Community Alternatives
How to Gather Evidence of Rehabilitation
(Separate Website)
Explains how job applicants with criminal records and/or alcohol and drug histories can get evidence of rehabilitation to help obtain employment.
By: Legal Action Center of the City of New York, Inc. (LAC)
Services and support available to former inmates and their families
Coming home: A Family's Guide to Reunification (Separate Website)
If your family member will soon be released from prison the New York State Department of Correctional Services and the Division of Parole developed a checklist of items that are important for you to review prior to the time that your family member returns home.
By: NYS Division of Parole
Read this in:
Spanish / Español
The Bronx Reentry & Resource Directory for Returning Residents and Families A comprehensive guide to reentry and related services in the Bronx. The directory is divided into several categories, including the following services: administrative and comprehensive, clothing, educational, employment, family, food pantry, health and wellness, housing, legal, mental health, substance abuse, and support groups.
By: The Bronx Reentry Working Group
Connections 2012 and the Job Search
(Separate Website)
This guide is for formerly incarcerated people to learn the various steps involved in hunting for work. It discusses job interviewing and resume writing, preparation in prison, avoiding job discrimination as a formerly incarcerated individual, and telling the truth about your conviction(s) on a job application. It also lists many helpful organizations that can help with all kinds of problems.
By: The New York Public Library
Read this in:
Spanish / Español
I do not speak English, what is my right to receive information in my language?
Video: How to Work with Interpreters
(Separate Website)
In this video, you will learn some basic tips that will allow you to communicate effectively and easily through an interpreter with a person who doesn't speak your language.
By: Legal Services of New Jersey
Read this in:
Spanish / Español
Advisory: Past Criminal Matters Could Bar TPS Eligibility
(Separate Website)
Information on how criminal convictions/dispositions can affect TPS eligibility, and when convictions could trigger detention or deportation.
By: New York State Defenders Association - Criminal Defense Immigration Project
Alert for Lawful Permanent Residents with Criminal Records Considering Applying for U.S. Citizenship
(Separate Website)
A Guide for Lawful Permanent Residents with criminal convictions who are considering applying for citizenship. The guide explains which offenses may create barriers to citizenship or lead to deportation proceedings. Please consult with an attorney before filing any paperwork.
By: New York State Defenders Association - Criminal Defense Immigration Project
Read this in:
Chinese / 中文
,
Russian / Pусский
,
Spanish / Español
Appealing Removal Orders in Federal Court
(Separate Website)
This packet discusses how to file a
petition for review to challenge your
removal order.
By: New York State Defender's Association
Collateral Consequences Calculator
(Separate Website)
A calculator designed as an aid to legal research for judges, attorneys and legal academics. It can provide a preliminary overview of the collateral consequences associated with sections of the New York State Penal Law, and can be used as a way of seeing the big picture and beginning the process of determining the varied consequences of criminal charges.
By: Columbia Law School
Complaints About Attorneys
(Separate Website)
If you have a complaint against an attorney, you may contact the Attorney Disciplinary / Grievance Committee. The office you need to contact depends upon the location of your lawyer's office. Click for more information.
By: New York State Unified Court System
Dealing With ICE After a Raid or Arrests: Some Suggestions This resource explains some important steps to take after a raid or arrest with ICE.
By: Detention Watch Network
Read this in:
French / Français
,
Spanish / Español
Deportation Map
(Separate Website)
Use this map to learn about the different steps and different agencies that deal with the process of deportation.
By: NYSDA
Detainees with Minor Children: Frequently Asked Questions
(Separate Website)
This resource explains what you can do if you or someone you know has been detained and/or deported and have minor children.
(Please Note: some forms may be Florida specific)
By: Florida Immigrant Advocacy Center
Read this in:
Spanish / Español
Do you have trouble with English? Are you unable to to speak, read, write, or understand English well?
(Separate Website)
Did you know federal agencies and organizations that get money from the federal government have to provide reasonable services to assist you? Learn more.
By: Federal Interagency Working Group on LEP
English-Spanish Glossary of Legal Terms & Phrases
(Separate Website)
Families Beware! Immigration and Deportation Notice
(Separate Website)
This fact sheet explains what categories of non-citizens could be at risk for deportation, and what steps you could take to protect yourself.
By: Families for Freedom
Read this in:
Chinese / 中文
,
Russian / Pусский
,
Spanish / Español
Frequently Asked Questions About Naturalization: Reporting Your Crime History On Your Application
This resource discusses the need to always provide accurate information regarding your criminal history on your naturalization applications.
By: American Immigration Law Center
How to Apply to the Department of Homeland Security for Release from Immigration Custody
(Separate Website)
This booklet is for certain individuals in the custody of DHS who do not qualify under the law to ask an Immigration Judge to lower their bonds but who may qualify to ask the Immigration and Naturalization Service to set bonds in their cases or to let them leave the detention center without paying bonds.
By: Florence Immigration and Refugee Rights Project
Read this in:
Spanish / Español
How to Complain About Lawyers and Judges in NYC
(Separate Website)
An overview of how to file complaint against a Lawyer or Judge in NYC. Outlines client's rights and responsibilities.
By: City Bar Justice Center
How To Get Someone Out of Immigration Detention Please note: You should consult with an immigration lawyer before trying to get someone out of detention.
This resource provides some general guidelines as to some steps that can be taken.
By: Detention Watch Network
Read this in:
French / Français
,
Spanish / Español
How to Send the Government a Complaint About Detention Conditions or Treatment By ICE If someone you know was detained and unfairly treated in a detention facility, follow these instructions to file a complaint.
By: Detention Watch Network
Read this in:
French / Français
,
Spanish / Español
I Am In Immigration Detention...What Are My Rights?
(Separate Website)
This resource explains your rights when approached by the police an immigration officials.
By: National Immigration Project
Read this in:
Chinese / 中文
,
Spanish / Español
If you have a case in immigration court; Read this before you take legal advice
(Separate Website)
Read these tips to prevent you from being a victim of immigration fraud.
By: Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR)
If you have been detained by ICE find out how you can complain effectively If you have been detained by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), it is possible that you may have complaints about access to attorneys and legal materials, conditions of confinement, or other issues. This document will give you a description of the ways in which you can voice your complaints to the proper government offices.
By: American Bar Association
Read this in:
Spanish / Español
Immigrants and Pleas In Problem-Solving Courts: A Guide For Non-Citizen Defendants and Their Advocates
(Separate Website)
This resource provides information on problem-solving courts and how they can give some defendants a chance to participate in rehabilitation
programs and rejoin their communities rather than face time in jail or prison.
By: New York State Defender's Association Immigrant Defense Project
Read this in:
Chinese / 中文
,
Russian / Pусский
,
Spanish / Español
Immigration Detention Facilities While there are immigration-managed facilities, most immigrants are detained in country or local jails or private contract facilities. Learn more about the different detention facilities.
By: Detention Watch Network
Read this in:
French / Français
,
Spanish / Español
Immigration Forms
(Separate Website)
Visit this website to download and learn more about the application process and charges for different types of immigration forms.
By: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
Read this in:
Spanish / Español
Immigration in the Criminal Justice System Flowchart
A visual explanation of the immigration consequences at each stage of criminal proceedings.
By: New York State Defenders Association - Criminal Defense Immigration Project
Immigration Law Glossary
(Separate Website)
This is a glossary of commonly used words and phrases when talking about immigration law. Definitions for each word and phrases are provided.
By: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
Immigration Rights and Services Manual
(Separate Website)
This manual provides important information on the rights and services available to immigrants in New York City.
Read this in:
Chinese / 中文
,
Spanish / Español
Immigration, Detention And Removal: A Guide For Detainees And Their Families This resource provides information regarding detention, deportation, and the removal of non-citizens with criminal convictions.
By: Legal Aid Society: Immigration Law Unit
Is Your Lawyer Licensed to Practice? You should check to make sure your lawyer is licensed to practice before you hire them to represent you. Find out what you can do!
By: Lawhelp NY
The Consequences Of Criminal Charges For Immigrants: A Reentry Perspective Noncitizen defendants face a unique set of barriers to reintegration into society following their interaction with the criminal justice system. This resource provides information about these barriers.
By: New York State Defenders Association - Criminal Defense Immigration Project
Read this in:
Spanish / Español
Understanding the Immigration Consequences of Your Criminal Charges This resource provides information if you are an immigrant who wants to become a lawful permanent resident (LPR) or a citizen and have been charged with a crime.
By: New York State Defender's Association Immigrant Defense Project
Read this in:
Chinese / 中文
USCIS Field Office Locator: Find Out Where Your Local Immigration Office Is?
(Separate Website)
Simply put in your zipcode or search by state to find a local immigration office near you.
By: U.S Citizenship and Immigration Services
USCIS Information to Avoid Immigration Scams
(Separate Website)
This section of the USCIS website provides information on how to avoid scams, common scams, form filing tips, how to report immigration scams, and much more.
What to Do if you are Arrested or Detained by Immigration
(Separate Website)
Information on your rights, what steps you can take, and what you might expect, if you have been arrested or detained by immigration.
By: National Immigration Law Center
Read this in:
Chinese / 中文
,
Spanish / Español
What to do if You are in Expedited Removal or Reinstatement of Removal
(Separate Website)
This pamphlet explains what will happen to people in Expedited Removal, Reinstatement of Removal and Administrative Removal.
By: Florence Immigration and Refugee Rights Project
Read this in:
Spanish / Español
What to do if you get arrested by Immigration
(Separate Website)
This booklet provides information on how to prepare for an arrest by immigration, how to find someone who has been arrested, how to request release from detention and on bond related issues.
By: CUNY Citizenship and Immigration Project
What To Tell Family Members Who Call You This resource points out steps families can take after they speak with the person that has been detained. It also provides tips as to what to tell your family member.
By: Detention Watch Network
Read this in:
French / Français
,
Spanish / Español
DCJS Personal Criminal History Review Program
(Separate Website)
A link to the Division of Criminal Justice Services web site, which explains how you can get a copy of your rap sheet.
By: Division of Criminal Justice Services
Read this in:
Spanish / Español
How to Get and Clean Up Your NY State Rap Sheet
(Separate Website)
This booklet offers a person with a criminal record a step-by-step guide to getting and cleaning up his or her state rap sheet. The booklet includes model letters, explanations of what types of offenses can be sealed, and guidance on completing employment applications. The booklet also explains how to get a Certificate of Relief from Disabilities or a Certificate of Good Conduct.
By: Legal Action Center of the City of New York, Inc. (LAC)
Information for Sex Offenders
(Separate Website)
Explains who must register on the New York State Sex Offender Registry, how to register, what information you need to report, and what you need to do if you move.
By: New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services
Read this in:
Spanish / Español
Sample Letter to DCJS Requesting Sealing of Records Form letter to send to the Division of Criminal Justice Services to request that they seal violation convictions, dismissed cases, or cases
where the District Attorney declined to prosecute.
By: The Bronx Defenders
Sealing Criminal Records: How to Review a Rap Sheet for Errors Short training handout includes common errors on rap sheets, and explains what convictions can and cannot be sealed and how that affects the individual.
By: Civil Action Project/Bronx Defenders
Are You Somebody With a Criminal Record, HIV/AIDS or an Alcohol or Drug History? Prevent Discrimination Before It Happens
(Separate Website)
This booklet is for New Yorkers with HIV or AIDS, a drug or alcohol problem and/or a criminal record who want to know their rights to be free of discrimination. It explains: laws that forbid discrimination; limits on what employers, landlords, and others may ask; how to get a job or housing despite the stigma associated with HIV, addiction, and having a criminal record; and what to do when confronted with illegal discrimination.
By: Legal Action Center of the City of New York, Inc. (LAC)
Collateral Consequences Calculator
(Separate Website)
A calculator designed as an aid to legal research for judges, attorneys and legal academics. It can provide a preliminary overview of the collateral consequences associated with sections of the New York State Penal Law, and can be used as a way of seeing the big picture and beginning the process of determining the varied consequences of criminal charges.
By: Columbia Law School
Complaints About Attorneys
(Separate Website)
If you have a complaint against an attorney, you may contact the Attorney Disciplinary / Grievance Committee. The office you need to contact depends upon the location of your lawyer's office. Click for more information.
By: New York State Unified Court System
Do You Have a Criminal Conviction History?
(Separate Website)
A guide to employment rights in New York for those with a criminal conviction history.
By: The Association of the Bar of the City of New York
Employment Discrimination Fact Sheet for Workers This fact sheet lists types of workplace discrimination along with tips for recognizing workplace discrimination (based on gender, religion, national origin/ethnicity, criminal history, etc.). It provides explanations of sexual harassment, language discrimination, required religious accommodations, etc. It also contains phone numbers of agencies to call if you feel you are experiencing workplace discrimination.
By: National Employment Law Project
English-Spanish Glossary of Legal Terms & Phrases
(Separate Website)
Healthcare Licensing Chart This is a chart summarizing the procedures for criminal history checks and criminal record-based restrictions. This chart also lists the processes for overcoming these restrictions for job applicants at agencies licensed by the Department of Health, Office of Mental Health, and Office of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities.
By: Legal Action Center of the City of New York, Inc. (LAC)
How to Apply for a Birth Certificate in New York City If you were born in NYC this booklet provides info on how to obtain a copy of your New York City birth certificate.
By: The Door - A Center of Alternatives
How to File a Complaint with the New York City Commission on Human Rights
(Separate Website)
Information on how to file a complaint with the City if you are a victim of employment discrimination.
By: New York City Commission on Human Rights
Read this in:
Spanish / Español
How to File a Complaint with the New York State Division of Human Rights
(Separate Website)
Information on how to file a complaint with the State Division of Human Rights if you believe that you have been the victim of discrimination.
By: New York State Division of Human Rights
Read this in:
Chinese / 中文
,
Russian / Pусский
,
Spanish / Español
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