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Fighting for Racial Equity
New York is one of the most diverse cities in the country. We demand equal justice for all New Yorkers—regardless of who they are or where they come from.
Get Help Now
Every day, in courthouses and communities across the city, we advocate for the rights of all New Yorkers. Learn more about the services we provide.
Our Work With Partners
Working to End New York’s Prison Slavery System
The Legal Aid Society is part of a statewide coalition supporting the 13th Forward bill package which would abolish slavery without exception in NY’s constitution and extend workers’ protections to incarcerated New Yorkers.
Our Impact
Setting the Record Straight for New York's Young People
Set The Records Straight is a project designed to ensure that juvenile delinquency arrest-related records are treated confidentially and that youth arrested for juvenile delinquencies do not face unlawful discrimination.
It is estimated that over 400,000 juveniles have been arrested in New York City since 2006. Many of these individuals face later barriers to employment, education, housing, and other opportunities as a result of their juvenile record.
By the Numbers
Our work touches the lives of the most disenfranchised groups in New York City, and pushes our society closer to racial equity through individual and systemic anti-racism representation and advocacy.
87%
Of clients served by the Civil Practice identify as BIPOC.
88%+
Of clients served by the Criminal Defense Pratice identify as BIPOC.
90%+
Of incarcerated New Yorkers identify as non-white.
Make a Meaningful Impact
The Legal Aid Society changes the lives of our clients with the help of our generous supporters.