Your local starting points
A few different doors to knock on. Choose by what you need, check who each program serves, and have your notice or key dates nearby.
Nation's oldest and largest legal aid org. Free civil, criminal, and juvenile defense in NYC.
Programs screen by income, location, issue and available capacity. Acceptance or representation is not guaranteed.Find a lawyer for a consultation, a particular task, or full representation.
A referral is not free representation. Ask about limited-scope work, the consultation price and any retainer.Start with the court’s instructions and forms for your type of proceeding.
Filing or service fees may apply. Ask about fee waivers. Court staff cannot act as your lawyer.Ask a volunteer attorney a civil legal question through a participating program.
Check state availability and screening rules. Not for criminal defense, urgent deadlines or ongoing representation.Free civil legal services for low-income New Yorkers: immigration, housing, family, public benefits.
Immigration, civil rights, entrepreneurship, and civil litigation clinics.
If a program cannot help, ask for a referral. If a deadline is close, say so at the start of the call.
JustLegal provides free educational information and organization tools. We are not a law firm and do not provide legal advice or representation. Providers decide eligibility, availability, fees, and whether to accept a matter.