Department of Family Assistance

Nurse checking patient's blood pressure during dialysis

NYS Department of Family Assistance

Office of Children and Family Services, Bureau of Special Hearings &

Office of Temporary & Disability Assistance

Representation in Hearings Before NYS Family Assistance Agencies

If you are facing a denial, reduction, or termination of your public assistance benefits, or if you have been sanctioned or otherwise affected by a decision from the New York State Department of Family Assistance (DFA), the Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS), or the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA), you have the right to request a hearing.

As experienced representatives, Birch Hill Chambers' members provide advocacy and support to help you navigate these complex hearings and protect your benefits.

What Matters Require a Hearing on the Merits?

Hearings on the merits are formal administrative reviews held when there is a dispute over eligibility, benefits, or sanctions in several key assistance programs, including:

Temporary Assistance (TA): Family Assistance (FA), Safety Net Assistance (SNA), Emergency Assistance, and related benefits.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): Disputes over eligibility, benefit amounts, and sanctions.
Disability Assistance (DA) and Medicaid: Appeals involving eligibility, coverage, or benefit disputes.
Child Welfare and Foster Care Payments: Disputes involving foster care funding or eligibility.
Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) and Other OTDA Benefits: Challenges related to energy assistance or supplemental grants.

How Can Birch Hill Chambers Help?

Review and Understand Your Case: Our advocates will carefully examine all notices, documents, and agency actions to identify issues that affect your benefits.
Prepare for Your Hearing: Our advocates will help gather evidence, organize your information, and prepare you to present your case effectively.
Advocate on Your Behalf: At the hearing, our advocates will present your case, question witnesses if necessary, and make arguments to protect your rights.
Ensure Fair Process: Hearings are your opportunity to challenge agency decisions. Our advocates will make sure your voice is heard and your case is fully considered.
Support After the Hearing: Whether it involves reviewing hearing decisions or assisting with further appeals, our advocates remain by your side.

Why Choose Professional Representation?

Navigating state benefit hearings can be complicated and stressful. With professional representation, you gain:

A clear understanding of your rights and program rules.
Experienced guidance through administrative procedures.
Strong advocacy to maximize your chances of a favorable outcome.

If you are facing a loss or reduction of your benefits, don’t face it alone. Contact Birch Hill Chambers today for a consultation, and let’s ensure your case receives the attention it deserves.

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