Merril Sobie

April 26, 2024 | New York Law Journal

To an observer, Family Court appears to be, with minor exception, similar to every judicial tribunal. However, the foundation, philosophy, and experiences of Family Court are unique.

By Merril Sobie

6 minute read

April 07, 2023 | New York Law Journal

We are particularly appalled by the clear misunderstanding of the critical role of the Attorney for the Child (AFC) in custody and visitation proceedings.

By Karen Freedman, Dawne Mitchell, Karen Simmons and Merril Sobie

4 minute read

December 16, 2021 | New York Law Journal

New York should not and need not remain far behind the national trend to unshackle individuals from prior adolescent misbehavior.

By Merril Sobie

10 minute read

April 05, 2021 | New York Law Journal

The AFC's responsibilities have evolved from an amorphous hybrid guardian approach to the now commonly accepted attorney-client model, with the logical and needed exception of the very young.

By Merril Sobie

9 minute read

October 22, 2013 | New York Law Journal

By Jay C. Carlisle II, Randolph M. McLaughlin, Bennett L. Gershman, Merril Sobie

3 minute read

September 04, 2012 | New York Law Journal

Merril Sobie, a professor at Pace University Law School, writes: Today, in 48 states a child who is 16 years of age will be adjudicated in a juvenile or family court, and in most states a child of 17 will be similarly adjudicated. Only two states, New York and North Carolina, adhere to the early 20th century age limitation.

By Merril Sobie

10 minute read