Author: Michael Phillips

Michael Phillips is a journalist, editor, creator, IT consultant, and father. He writes about politics, family-court reform, and civil rights.
case files, Case Updates, new-york

Email Correspondence & Appellate Record (Disability Claims and Custody Rulings)

The documents include internal emails from Marc Fishman detailing his complaints about disability discrimination during court proceedings, specifically regarding virtual hearings and ADA accommodations. They reference an appellate court decision impacting custody arrangements and highlight Fishman’s claims of procedural delays, retaliation by court personnel, and withheld exculpatory evidence throughout the case. Continue reading Email Correspondence & Appellate Record (Disability Claims and Custody Rulings)

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case files, Case Updates, new-york

Police Reports & Court Transfer Order

The documents obtained through a FOIL request detail the case of Marc Fishman, involving a police incident report and a court transfer order. The police report describes Fishman’s arrest for criminal contempt related to violating an order of protection. The case was transferred to the Integrated Domestic Violence Court for coordinated proceedings. Continue reading Police Reports & Court Transfer Order

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case files, Case Updates, new-york, Susan Cacace

Request for Immediate Recusal of DA in People v Fishman

Marc Fishman has requested District Attorney Susan Cacace to recuse herself from his case, citing a conflict of interest involving a family court transcriber and attorney. He emphasizes the urgency of the request and indicates plans to escalate the matter to Judge Williams if he does not receive a timely response. Continue reading Request for Immediate Recusal of DA in People v Fishman

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case files, Case Updates, new-york, Susan Cacace

Request for District Attorney Cacace to Recuse and Withdraw

Marc Fishman has requested District Attorney Susan Cacace to recuse herself from his case due to a conflict of interest involving his attorney, Alan Kachalsky. Fishman claims that Cacace previously oversaw Kachalsky’s case and cites issues regarding a transcript that was allegedly altered. He demands a response by April 15, 2026. Continue reading Request for District Attorney Cacace to Recuse and Withdraw

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Article, case files, Sean Kane

The Officer Who Stayed: Inside the Disciplinary Record of Lt. Sean Kane

Lt. Sean Kane’s disciplinary record reveals systemic failures within the New Rochelle Police, marked by repeated violations like missing court dates and mishandling evidence. Despite these issues, he remained employed, highlighting an accountability gap. His case raises concerns about the integrity of prosecutions and the culture that tolerates misconduct among officers. Continue reading The Officer Who Stayed: Inside the Disciplinary Record of Lt. Sean Kane

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Explainers

ADA Accommodations in Court: What Disabled Defendants Are Entitled To — And What Happens When They Don’t Get Them

The concept of “due process” for disabled defendants transcends mere legal representation; it hinges on their ability to participate in proceedings. Accommodations are vital and not optional, as demonstrated in Marc Fishman’s case, where systemic barriers jeopardized his fair trial. A just system requires proactive access measures, not mere sympathy. Continue reading ADA Accommodations in Court: What Disabled Defendants Are Entitled To — And What Happens When They Don’t Get Them

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Explainers

The Marc Fishman Case, Explained in One Timeline

Marc Fishman’s case highlights systemic issues in the judicial process. Arrested during a supervised visitation in 2018, he claims crucial evidence was overlooked. In 2024, the New York AG documented misconduct by the arresting officer, yet Fishman’s appeal continues without resolution, raising significant transparency and accountability concerns. Continue reading The Marc Fishman Case, Explained in One Timeline

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Article, case files, disability rights, new-york

Justice Denied: Why Marc Fishman’s Case Matters to Every Disabled New Yorker

Marc Fishman’s case highlights the failures of New York’s justice system regarding disabled defendants. Despite clear exonerating evidence and acknowledgment of police misconduct, Marc remains convicted. His situation underscores systemic flaws in ADA compliance and prosecutorial ethics, raising concerns about the protection of disabled individuals within the legal framework. Continue reading Justice Denied: Why Marc Fishman’s Case Matters to Every Disabled New Yorker

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Article, case files, disability rights, Federal

A Case About Disability Rights, Due Process, and Meaningful Access

A federal civil-rights appeal in the Second Circuit addresses how police treat individuals with disabilities during arrest. Marc H. Fishman alleges New Rochelle police denied his accommodation request during questioning. The appeal emphasizes the need for meaningful access to justice for disabled individuals and challenges dismissals of such cases by lower courts. Continue reading A Case About Disability Rights, Due Process, and Meaningful Access

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case files, NY Court Admin

New York Courts Strengthen ADA Protections

On March 15, 2024, Chief Judge Rowan D. Wilson introduced amendments to Part 52 of the Chief Judge’s Rules, permitting private disability accommodations (ex parte) for judges. This reform, backed by the Advisory Committee on Access for People with Disabilities, enhances privacy and ensures equal justice for individuals with disabilities in New York. Continue reading New York Courts Strengthen ADA Protections

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