Stephen Bilkis

Stephen Bilkis graduated from Touro Law School in 1997. Soon after he passed the bar exam of New York and established the Law Offices of Stephen Bilkis & Associates. In over 20 years of practice, Mr. Bilkis has successfully represented scores of clients throughout Nassau County, Suffolk County, Westchester County, Queens, Brooklyn, Bronx, Manhattan, Long Island, and Staten Island in matters related to personal injury, probate law, criminal law, and family law.

Mr. Bilkis strongly believes that each client is unique and each case is different. His solutions are never “one size fits all.” He prides himself on listening to his clients, reviewing all facets of each case, and using his deep knowledge of New York law to come up with individualized solutions for each client.

Stephen Bilkis has been a member of various national and local bar organizations and associations including the New York State Bar Association, American Prepaid Legal Institute, the American Association for Justice, AARP Legal Services Network, and the New York State Trial Lawyers Association.

Stephen Bilkis and the staff at the Law Offices of Stephen Bilkis & Associates have well-earned reputations as knowledgeable and effective attorneys who fight for their clients’ legal rights. Because of this, the firm, its attorneys, and some of their notable cases or clients, in whole or in part, have been mentioned on several media outlets including CNN, CBS, CNBC, and ABC New York, as well as in the New York Times, New York Post and Newsday.

• Car Accidents

• Free Consultation

New York

Since 1997

Head of Law Office

Stephen Bilkis & Associates

Current

Touro Law School

10.0 Rating

Justia

AFL-CIO Union Privilege Legal Plan

Plan Administrator

Current

American Prepaid Legal Institute

Member

Current

New York State Trial Lawyers

Member

Current

New York State Bar  # 2842938

Member

1997 - Current

Union Plus Benefits for AFL-CIO Union Members Newsletter

Union Plus

Union Plus, AFL-CIO Legal Benefits Conference, Washington, DC

AFL-CIO

Gave yearly talks about employment benefit packages to the AFL-CIO Union leaders and members

Accepted Member

Writers Guild of America East

Q. My employer is trying to prove I committed fraud, what are my options?

February 3, 2025

A: I'm sorry to hear that your employer is accusing you of fraud. Allegations of fraud in the workplace can have serious legal and professional consequences, so it is important to understand your rights and options.

In New York, fraud is generally defined as intentionally deceiving someone to gain an unfair advantage, usually involving financial harm. If your employer is trying to prove that you committed fraud, they may be referring to actions such as falsifying records, misrepresenting work hours, submitting false expense reports, or engaging in other deceptive practices that violate company policies or state law. However, an accusation does not automatically mean that you are guilty or that legal action will be taken against you.

One of your first steps should be to determine the basis of the accusation. Request specific details about what you are being accused of, including any evidence your employer has. Understanding the claims against you will help you determine how to respond. If your employer has already taken disciplinary action, such as suspending or terminating you, you may have additional legal options.

If you believe the accusation is false, gather any relevant documents, emails, or records that support your defense. If the fraud allegations are related to work performance, payroll, or financial transactions, having clear records can help dispute the claims. Do not alter or destroy any documents, as this could be seen as an attempt to conceal evidence.

If your employer is conducting an internal investigation, you may be required to participate in interviews or provide statements. Be cautious in what you say, as anything you disclose could be used against you. If you feel uncomfortable answering questions or believe the matter could lead to legal consequences, you have the right to consult an attorney before responding.

If your employer intends to pursue criminal charges, it is critical to seek legal representation immediately. Fraud can be prosecuted under New York Penal Law, and charges can range from misdemeanors to felonies depending on the circumstances. If law enforcement is involved or you have been contacted by an investigator, do not speak to them without a lawyer present.

Even if criminal charges are not filed, your employer could pursue a civil lawsuit for damages if they believe they suffered financial losses due to your actions. An employment attorney can help assess the situation and determine the best course of action to protect your interests.

Additionally, if you believe that your employer is falsely accusing you as a form of retaliation or discrimination, you may have grounds for a wrongful termination claim or workplace retaliation complaint. The New York State Division of Human Rights and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) handle claims related to workplace discrimination and retaliation.

Given the potential consequences of a fraud accusation, consulting with an employment attorney is highly recommended. An attorney can help you respond to your employer’s claims, ensure that your rights are protected, and advise you on possible defenses or legal actions to take.

Disclaimer: This response is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For personalized guidance, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in New York. ... Read More

Q. HOW TO OBTAIN A PERMIT FOR A PAINT BALL GUN IN NYC?

February 3, 2025

A: In New York City, paintball guns are considered air rifles or air pistols, which are subject to strict regulations under local firearm and weapon laws. While paintball guns are not classified as traditional firearms under federal law, New York City has specific laws governing their possession, use, and transportation.

Under New York City Administrative Code § 10-131(b), the possession of any air rifle or air pistol, including paintball guns, is prohibited within city limits unless a person has a proper permit. This law applies to BB guns, pellet guns, and any device that uses compressed air to fire projectiles.

To legally obtain a permit for a paintball gun in New York City, you will need to apply through the New York City Police Department (NYPD) License Division. The application process includes the following steps:

1. Determine Eligibility – To apply for a permit, you must be at least 18 years old, have no criminal history that would disqualify you from possessing a weapon, and demonstrate a legitimate purpose for possessing a paintball gun.

2. Complete an Application – You may need to submit an application through the NYPD’s License Division, which typically requires personal information, proof of identity, and an explanation of why you need the paintball gun.

3. Pay Any Required Fees – The application may require a fee, and there could be additional costs associated with background checks or fingerprinting.

4. Comply with Storage and Transport Regulations – Even with a permit, New York City law requires that any air rifle or paintball gun be stored in a secure manner and transported in a locked case, unloaded, and separate from paintballs or CO2 cartridges.

Paintball guns may also be used only in designated areas, such as licensed paintball facilities, and not in public spaces or private property without permission. Violating these regulations can result in fines or criminal charges.

If you need further clarification, it is recommended that you contact the NYPD License Division or a licensed attorney who specializes in New York firearms and weapons laws.

Disclaimer: This response is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For personalized guidance, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in New York. ... Read More

Q. My boyfriend was arrested for a bench warrant. While in custody a detective called me after seeing me calling and text

February 3, 2025

A: I'm sorry to hear about the difficulty you are experiencing in recovering your money. If law enforcement seized the $24,000 when your boyfriend was arrested, you may need to take legal steps to prove ownership and request its return.

When someone is arrested, any property in their possession at the time of arrest is typically inventoried and stored by law enforcement. However, if the police believe the money is connected to criminal activity, it may have been classified as evidence or subject to civil forfeiture. In New York, law enforcement agencies have the authority to hold money if they suspect it is linked to illegal activity, even if no formal charges related to the money have been filed.

If the money was merely stored as your boyfriend’s personal property, it should be listed on the property inventory report. You can request a copy of this report from the police department that made the arrest. If the money is classified as evidence, law enforcement may hold it until the case is resolved or a court orders its return. If the money was seized under civil forfeiture laws, you may need to file a legal claim to prove rightful ownership.

Since you have already provided documentation showing the withdrawal from your bank account, you should follow up with the police department in writing. Send a formal letter to the precinct or agency that handled the arrest, requesting the return of your money. Include copies of your withdrawal receipt and bank statement. Keep a record of all communications, including dates and names of officers you have spoken to.

If law enforcement continues to ignore your requests, you may need to take further legal action. You can file a motion for the return of property with the court handling your boyfriend’s case. This motion, sometimes called a 730.30 motion under New York law, is used to request the return of property seized during an arrest. A judge may order the police to return the money if there is no legal basis to hold it.

Another option is to contact an attorney who specializes in civil asset forfeiture or criminal defense. An attorney can send a legal demand for the return of your money and, if necessary, file a court petition. If the money was wrongfully taken or lost, an attorney can help you take legal action against the responsible law enforcement agency.

If law enforcement claims the money is evidence in a criminal case, you may have to wait until the case is resolved. However, you still have the right to challenge the seizure and present evidence that the money belongs to you and is not connected to illegal activity.

Since it has already been over a month, you should act quickly to request documentation, send a written demand, and, if necessary, consult an attorney. The longer the delay, the more difficult it may be to recover the money.

Disclaimer: This response is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For personalized guidance, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in New York. ... Read More

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