Free Legal Resources
New York Legal Resources
Your complete guide to free and low-cost legal help in New York. Find legal aid organizations, court self-help centers, and pro se filing resources.
Free Legal Aid Organizations
The Legal Aid Society (NYC)
Counties: Manhattan, Bronx, Queens
Services: Criminal defense, civil legal aid, juvenile rights
Phone: 212-577-3300
Website: legal-aid.org
Legal Services NYC (LSNYC)
Counties: All 5 NYC boroughs
Services: Housing, family law, public benefits, immigration, consumer protection
Phone: 212-577-3300
Website: legalservicesnyc.org
Legal Aid Society of Northeastern New York
Counties: Capital Region, North Country, Mohawk Valley
Services: Housing, family law, public benefits
Phone: 1-833-627-7329
Website: lasnny.org
Legal Aid Society of Rochester
Counties: Monroe County
Services: Civil legal aid, criminal defense
Phone: 585-232-4090
Website: lasroc.org
Legal Aid Bureau of Buffalo
Counties: Erie County
Services: Civil legal aid, criminal defense
Phone: 716-853-9555
Website: labbuffalo.org
Court Information by County
| County | Court | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| New York (Manhattan) | Supreme Court | 646-386-3600 |
| Kings (Brooklyn) | Supreme Court | 347-401-9700 |
| Queens | Supreme Court | 718-262-7300 |
| Bronx | Supreme Court | 718-618-3300 |
| Richmond (Staten Island) | Supreme Court | 718-675-8700 |
| Erie (Buffalo) | County Clerk | 716-858-8785 |
| Monroe (Rochester) | County Clerk | 585-371-3410 |
| Onondaga (Syracuse) | County Clerk | 315-671-1100 |
New York Court Structure
- Supreme Court: Major civil cases, divorces, felony criminal
- Family Court: Custody, support, family offenses (NOT divorce)
- Housing Court: Landlord-tenant (NYC only)
Pro Se Filing Resources
"Pro se" means representing yourself in court without an attorney. New York Courts provide extensive DIY form programs.
| Filing Type | Typical Cost | Where to File |
|---|---|---|
| Divorce (Uncontested) | $335 filing fee | Supreme Court |
| Name Change | $210 filing fee | Supreme Court |
| Eviction Answer | $45 filing fee | Housing Court / City Court |
| Small Claims | $15-20 filing fee | Small Claims Court |
| Power of Attorney | No filing required | N/A |
| LLC Formation | $200 state fee | NY Department of State |
NY Court Forms & DIY Programs
When Legal Aid Can't Help
Legal aid organizations have income limits and case type restrictions. If you don't qualify, jurisdiction-correct document templates provide an affordable alternative.
Document Templates from Jurist-Diction
NY-specific legal documents coming soon. Contact us for availability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a court-appointed attorney for civil cases?
Generally, no. In New York, court-appointed attorneys (18-B assigned counsel) are primarily for criminal cases and some family court matters. For most civil matters (divorce, housing), you must hire an attorney or represent yourself.
What if I can't afford the filing fee?
Ask the court about filing for poor person relief (CPLR 1101). If you qualify based on income, the court may waive your filing fees.
How long does an uncontested divorce take in New York?
New York has no waiting period for no-fault divorce. Reality: 2-4 months is typical for uncontested cases. The divorce must be filed in Supreme Court (not Family Court).
Where do I file for divorce in NYC?
Divorces are filed in Supreme Court, not Family Court. Each borough has its own Supreme Court. You can also use the NY Courts DIY Divorce program online.
Additional Resources
NY State Government
Federal Courts
Bar Associations
This resource guide is provided for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice.
Last updated: March 2026