We are a law firm for poor and low-income people. We provide free assistance and representation in civil, not criminal, cases. There is no cost for any of the services we provide. We believe that everyone has the right to equal justice regardless of the ability to pay. 

Read about our history here.

The Legal Aid Society of Northeastern New York fights for fairness, dignity, and justice for those living in poverty and for a society which is inclusive and equitable for all. We transform lives, build community and empower people by using the law to address individual and systemic wrongs and inequities.

A just society is possible when we create genuine opportunities to thrive beyond basic needs and dismantle the barriers resulting from poverty and structural discrimination and oppression.

• We believe equal justice for all means protecting and advancing the rights of the most vulnerable.
• We recognize that the barriers of poverty are compounded by discrimination due to characteristics such as nationality, race, ethnicity, gender or gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, and political affiliation.
• We provide transformative justice through collaborative every day legal services on behalf of poor people.
• We live and work in our communities for positive change, promoting growth and human potential, redressing systemic and historic wrongs, seeking the freedom and equitable participation for all in civic, economic, and social life.
• We use the full-range of legal tools and work with key partners and communities to achieve creative and innovative solutions.
• We listen, learn from, and empower the communities we serve by addressing their needs and being accountable for our work.
• Our culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion reflects our values inside and out.

The Legal Aid Society does not discriminate against applicants for services based on race, color, creed, marital status, national original, religion, sex, sexual orientation or sexual identity, or disability. If you believe you have been wrongfully denied services, you may file a grievance. Any legal aid staff member can provide you with a copy of the complaint forms. They are also posted here:

Grievance About Denial of Assistance

Grievance About Manner or Quality of Assistance

LASNNY has signed the Diversity Principles and Goals for New York’s Legal Services Community. For more information, please go to the following links:

Statement of Diversity Goals of New York’s Legal Services Community

Principles of Leadership and Diversity for New York’s Legal Services Community