Open Government

Freedom of Information Requests

We assist clients in making and responding to records requests under the New York State Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) and the federal Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).

Requests

We file freedom of information requests with public entities to obtain records on our clients’ behalf and assist public entities with responding to and processing requests.

Appeals

We respond to freedom of information request denials with administrative appeals to obtain records that public entities claim are exempt from disclosure, and we assist public entities with adjudicating these appeals.

Litigation

We file lawsuits against public entities to obtain records on behalf of our clients when freedom of information request appeals are denied, and we defend public entities in such lawsuits.

Open Meetings Law Training

We advise public entities on how to comply with New York State’s Open Meetings Law (OML) and defend them against claims of OML violations.

“First Amendment Auditors” Training

We train public employees to effectively and professionally respond to members of the public who film inside public buildings. These visitors may identify themselves as “First Amendment auditors” or “independent journalists” and typically upload their videos to social media. Responding inappropriately to these visitors poses significant reputational and legal risks to public institutions.

To engage us for Open Government services, call (716) 464-3386 or write info@stephaniecoleadams.com to schedule a consultation.