If someone in your family has been arrested, start by confirming where they are, collecting the basic identifying information, and contacting a defense attorney. You do not need to know every detail before calling Lebedin Kofman LLP at 646 663 4430.
Have these details ready.
- The person's full name and date of birth.
- Where and approximately when the arrest occurred.
- The police precinct, agency, courthouse, or detention facility, if known.
- Any arrest number, docket number, appearance ticket, or other paperwork.
- Any known court date and the name of counsel already involved.
- Urgent medication, medical, language, or accessibility needs to flag.
Provide what you know and distinguish it from what someone else told you. A partial but accurate account is more useful than a guessed charge or court date.
Finding a person in custody
New York City's Department of Correction has a Person In Custody Lookup. That system concerns DOC custody; it is not a universal record of every recent police arrest. If you do not find the person, tell the attorney what agencies or facilities you have contacted rather than assuming they have been released.
The New York City Criminal Court FAQs provide court and case information guidance. For an arrest outside New York City, identify the county and agency so the inquiry goes to the appropriate office.
What an early court appearance may address
At arraignment, the court addresses the charges and issues such as representation and release. The exact procedure depends on the court and case. Do not rely on a predicted release time or assume a particular bail or release outcome. Keep any papers issued by the court and ask counsel to explain the next date and conditions.
Keep family communications focused on logistics.
Do not assume a call from custody is private. NYC DOC provides a procedure for designated professional numbers to be exempted from recording. Ordinary family calls do not become confidential attorney communications just because a legal case is discussed. Listen to the recording notice and arrange for the person to speak directly with counsel about the allegations.
Save relevant messages, photographs, and documents without altering or deleting them. Do not post an account of the incident online or send sensitive evidence through the general consultation form. Ask the attorney how to provide material securely.
How the firm can begin
Call with the immediate concern, custody information, and any court deadline. The firm can discuss the proposed representation, who the client will be, and the information needed for the next step. Paying for a relative's lawyer does not by itself resolve what information counsel may share; discuss communication expectations with the attorney.
For an urgent arrest, call 646 663 4430. For a nonurgent inquiry, use the consultation form below. The initial consultation is free.
Related guidance
Sources reviewed September 28, 2026: New York Courts, basic criminal case steps; NYC Department of Correction, recording of calls. This general guide does not replace advice about a particular arrest.