Legal Services
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The Community Service Society of New York (CSS) is an informed, independent, and unwavering voice for positive action on behalf of more than 3 million low-income New Yorkers.
*Due to Covid-19, in-person services are not currently available. Please call 212-254-8900 for information or check this page for the latest updates on service and schedule changes.
The Bronx Defenders provides innovative, holistic, and client-centered criminal defense, family defense, civil legal services, social work support and advocacy to indigent people of the Bronx.
The Bronx Defenders have an open-door community intake services available to walk-in clients five days a week from 9 AM to 4 PM at their Client Reception space located at 360 East 161st Street. Participants can also schedule an appointment with an intake advocate by calling 718-838-7878.
To facilitate access to attorneys in emergencies, The Bronx Defenders has launched a 24-hour legal hotline. If you or a family member is arrested, wanted by the police or contacted by ACS, you should reach out to our hotline at 347-778-1266 any time of the day.
The Legal Aid Society exists for one simple yet powerful reason: to ensure that no New Yorker is denied their right to equal justice because of poverty. For over 140 years, they have protected, defended, and advocated for those that have struggled in silence for far too long – working on the front-lines and behind-the-scenes to offer our clients the exceptional legal services they deserve.
For legal advice call The Legal Aid Society's general intake number: 212-577-3300 or visit their website.
The Civil Court Help Centers provide free walk-in services to litigants who are not represented by an attorney and have cases pending in the Civil Court of the City of New York. Help Center Attorneys are attorneys employed by the Civil Court who provide legal and procedural information to self-represented litigants. The Civil Court Help Centers provide information and assistance to thousands of persons facing eviction or in need of other services (repairs, adult protective services, etc.) to maintain their tenancy. They serve both persons living in un-subsidized housing as well as NYCHA.
The Civil Court Help Centers provide free walk-in services to litigants who are not represented by an attorney and have cases pending in the Civil Court of the City of New York. Visit Representing Yourself to find assistance and information on-line. If you still need help in person, read below to learn what services are available in the Help Center.
Legal Services NYC
LSNYC Citywide Legal Assistance Hotline is open Monday through Friday from 10am to 4pm. Call 917-661-4500 to speak to an intake officer in any language.