Conflict Defender

PLEASE NOTE:
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and Executive Orders from the Governor of New York, this office is currently closed to the public. However, we are fully operational and will be accepting applications for Assigned Counsel. Please be further advised that all persons applying will be deemed eligible regardless of financial circumstances, so we will not need to collect any financial documentation at this time. These applications will be taken over the telephone. We are asking that you call the office at (585) 396-4284. If your call is not answer, please leave a message with your name and telephone number, speak clearly, and your phone call will be returned. Thank you for your understanding during this difficult time.

The Office of the Ontario County Conflict Defender was established by the Ontario County Board of Supervisors through Local Law No. 3-2013. The first Conflict Defender, Andrea J. Schoeneman, Esq., was appointed to this position by Ontario County Board of Supervisors resolution dated May 26, 2014, and effective on July 1, 2014.  After the retirement of Ms. Schoeneman, Carrie W. Bleakley, Esq. was appointed as Conflict Defender effective August 12, 2019.
 
Conflict Defender’s Function:
The Conflict Defender’s Office provides mandated indigent legal representation when a conflict of interest disqualifies the Public Defender’s Office from representing the client. The Conflict Defender  also administers the Assigned Counsel Plan, along with managing, administering and supervising mandated indigent legal representation services that are not provided by the Public Defender.