New York State Justice Center

Commemorating 10 years of service to New York's most vulnerable populations

Nominations Open Now

Code of Conduct Awards

Each year, the NYS Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs (Justice Center) recognizes the dedicated staff who provide support to people with special needs throughout New York State with the Code of Conduct Recognition Award. The Justice Center is seeking nominations for the 2023 Awards. The Code of Conduct for Custodians of People with Special Needs provides a framework for assisting people with special needs “live self-directed, meaningful lives in their communities, free from abuse and neglect, and protected from harm.” This award recognizes people who demonstrate a strong commitment to the provisions of the Code of Conduct.

Click below to nominate someone for this year's award (deadline: June 30, 2023).

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Introduction to the Justice Center

Advocacy & Support

Resources available to help individuals receiving services and their families or personal representatives.

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Reporting an Incident

The process for reporting an incident to the Justice Center and what happens once a report is made.

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Resources for Success

Materials produced by the Justice Center to help equip staff and advocates with the needed skills to prevent abuse and neglect.

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Pre-employment Checks

Protecting Individuals in Care

The Justice Center works hand in hand with providers to prevent individuals with troublesome histories from working with vulnerable populations. Staff Exclusion List (SEL) and Criminal Background checks of prospective employees and volunteers who will work directly with individuals with special needs are required by law, with the intention of stopping abuse or neglect before it happens.

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Investigations

Serving Vulnerable New Yorkers

Find Help

The Justice Center has advocates available to help victims and their families or personal representatives during an investigation. Advocates can answer questions about the processes of the agency and give case updates.

Contact an Advocate

Investigations

The Justice Center investigates allegations of abuse or neglect of individuals with special needs. Every allegation is investigated to conclusion.

Learn How It Works

Learn More About The Agency