Handoff
Find a lawyer or free legal help
This is the point where we stop and a licensed professional starts. Below are the realistic routes to legal help. Bring your case packet with you — an organized hour is worth several unorganized ones.
If you are in immediate danger, call 911. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is 1-800-799-7233, 24 hours a day. In New York City, the Family Justice Centers can be reached through nyc.gov/hope.
Free and low-cost legal help
LawHelpNY
A directory of free legal-aid providers across New York State, searchable by county and problem type.
NY Courts CourtHelp
The New York court system's own guidance for people without lawyers, including forms, court locations, and Help Centers inside the courthouses.
The Legal Aid Society
Free civil legal services in New York City, including family law, for people who meet income eligibility.
New York City Bar Legal Referral Service
Connects you with a licensed attorney in the right practice area, typically with a low-cost initial consultation.
Outside New York
The national directory at LawHelp.org lists legal-aid providers by state, and your state or county bar association runs its own referral service.
Before you call
- Have your timeline and document index in front of you.
- Know your court, county, and case number if you have one.
- Write your questions down in advance — the items your packet marked as needing an attorney are a good start.
- Ask whether limited-scope help is available if full representation is out of reach.
- Apply to more than one legal-aid provider. Capacity is limited everywhere.