MATTER OF ANDREW "MM"

Following fact-finding and dispositional hearings, Family Court found that respondent neglected his girlfriend's children. On appeal, respondent's counsel seeks to be relieved of his assignment as counsel for respondent on the ground that no nonfrivolous issues can be raised on appeal. Based upon our review of the record and defense counsel's brief, we disagree. Inasmuch as the record reveals possible nonfrivolous issues, including questions related to respondent's absence from part of the dispositional hearing, respondent's counsel is relieved of his assignment and new counsel will be assigned to address any issues the record may disclose.

CARDONA, P.J., CREW III, YESAWICH JR., CARPINELLO and MUGGLIN, JJ., concur.

ORDERED that the decision is withheld, application to be relieved of assignment granted and new counsel to be assigned.