Brooklyn criminal defense attorneys discuss beating federal prosecutors at CLE

President Darran Winslow and officers sworn in for one more year as KCCBA leadership

April 3, 2024 Robert Abruzzese, Courthouse Editor

Judge Keshia Espinal administers the oath of office to Darran Winslow, marking his continuation as President of the Kings County Criminal Bar Association (KCCBA) for another year. Brooklyn Eagle photos by Robert Abruzzese

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The Kings County Criminal Bar Association (KCCBA) hosted a Continuing Legal Education (CLE) seminar titled “A State Practitioner’s Guide to Federal Criminal Issues” on Thursday, March 21, shedding light on the complexities of federal criminal law for state practitioners.

The speakers included Christopher Wright, a past president of the KCCBA, Michael Hueston and Samuel Gregory. Their discussion aimed to bridge the gap between state and federal criminal practice, offering invaluable insights into navigating the federal legal system.

In a gesture of recognition and appreciation, the KCCBA also honored Barbara Difiore, Kendea Johnson and Celine Ebert of the Assigned Counsel Plan (ACP) for their significant contributions to the legal community.

The ACP, created in 1966, serves to ensure that indigent individuals facing criminal charges in federal court receive proper legal representation. The ACP allows attorneys to seek certification across various panels, including Misdemeanor, Felony, Homicide A1 Panel, Criminal Appeals and Parole, thereby ensuring a broad spectrum of legal representation for the indigent accused.

The event further served as a platform for the ratification vote of the new slate of officers and board members, and Hon. Keshia Espinal oversaw the formal swearing-in ceremony. The newly ratified officers included President Darran Winslow, Executive Vice President Paul Hirsch, Vice Presidents Arthur Aidala, Wayne Bodden, Michael Hueston, Estelle Roond, Treasurer Allana Alexander and Secretary Alain Messina.

The newly ratified officers of the KCCBA stand among the audience, right hands raised, as they take their oath, committing to their roles and responsibilities in the association at KCCBA CLA on Federal Crimes. — The newly ratified officers of the KCCBA stand among the audience, right hands raised, as they take their oath, committing to their roles and responsibilities in the association.

This evening culminated in a collaborative discussion among attendees and panelists, fostering a deeper understanding of federal criminal law’s nuances. Michael Hueston led the discussion, drawing on his extensive experience to explain the specifics of discovery obligations to the strategic considerations behind plea negotiations.

The seminar covered a range of crucial topics, including discovery and pretrial proceedings, motion practice, plea negotiations, and miscellaneous aspects pivotal to federal criminal pretrial practice. Highlights included detailed discussions on discovery, the intricacies of Speedy Trial considerations and an overview of common charges seen in Brooklyn, particularly focusing on drug-related offenses under 21 U.S. Code §§ 841 and 846.

Pretrial motions were another focal point, with comprehensive coverage on the types of motions pertinent to federal criminal proceedings, including motions for a Bill of Particulars, Severance of Offenses and motions regarding venue and suppression.

The KCCBA’s commitment to legal education equips practitioners with the tools needed for effective advocacy in the federal court, which can be intimidating for even experienced attorneys. The session not only clarified complex legal procedures but also encouraged dialogue on best practices and strategies for representing clients in federal court.

As the KCCBA prepares for its next meeting on April 25, featuring the Annual Search and Seizure CLE presented by Hon. Barry Kamins.