Defendant contends that he was denied effective assistance of appellate counsel because counsel failed to raise an issue on direct appeal that would have resulted in reversal, specifically, whether defendant was present for certain sidebar discussions during voir dire. Upon our review of the record, we conclude that the issue may have merit. Therefore, the order of July 14, 1995 is vacated and this Court will consider the appeal de novo (see, People v. Vasquez, 70 N.Y.2d 1, rearg denied 70 N.Y.2d 748; People v. LeFrois, 151 A.D.2d 1046). Defendant is directed to file and serve his brief with this Court on or before December 1, 1997, and, if so filed and served, the appeal is to be added to the calendar for the term of Court commencing February 17, 1998.