Opinion
December 30, 1996.
Motion for writ of error coram nobis granted, and the order entered November 19, 1993 ( 198 AD2d 847) is hereby vacated.
Present — Denman, P.J., Green, Lawton, Fallon and Boehm, JJ.
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 during the Sandoval conference. Upon our review of the trial court proceedings, we conclude that the issue may have merit. Therefore, the order of November 19, 1993 is vacated and this Court will consider the appeal de novo ( see, People v Vasquez, 70 NY2d 1, rearg denied 70 NY2d 748; People v LeFrois, 151 AD2d 1046). Defendant's assigned counsel is directed to file and serve defendant's brief with this Court on or before March 14, 1997, respondent is directed to file its brief on or before April 14, 1997, and the appeal is to be added to the calendar for the term of Court commencing May 5, 1997.