Sean Hill

The Project

Sean represented youth aged 24 and under in New York City Family Court proceedings, to facilitate and promote the family stability necessary for successful re-entry, following involvement in the criminal justice system.

Family support is an essential element of successful re-entry for youth involved in the criminal justice system, yet many family relationships are strained by the emotional and financial toll of justice system involvement. This destabilization frequently manifests itself in family court matters, where youth are frequently unrepresented, and lack the requisite maturity and judgment to effectively advocate for themselves. This project will provide the Family Court representation this youth population needs to remain outside of the criminal justice system.

Fellowship Highlights:

During Sean’s Fellowship, Sean has:

• Delivered 19 Know-Your-Rights workshops to 107 youth across New York City
• Collaborated with six community-based organizations, including Good Shepherd Services and LIFT, to represent young parents in Family Court
• Successfully advocated for child support orders and modifications reflecting clients’ actual (rather than assumed) income
• Participated in a coalition that convinced state legislators and Governor Cuomo to add 25 more Family Court judges statewide