Resources
Read the latest resources from Legal Services NYC.
LGBTQ+ Rights
Are you an LGBTQ+ New Yorker facing discrimination, eviction, or issues accessing health care, immigration relief, housing or other public benefits? Are you living with HIV/AIDs and experiencing discrimination? Legal Services NYC provides FREE legal assistance to the LGBTQ+ community and…
What do I do if ICE shows up at my home?
Do not open the door Remember that ICE does NOT have the right to come into your home unless YOU or a judge authorizes it. You do not have to open the door or let officers in unless they have a…
Words you might hear in housing court
Here are some commonly used words in housing court. Read them over to prepare for your court date. 311 This is a citywide telephone hotline. Tenants call 311 to report problems in their apartments such as no heat or hot water,…
What are some common mistakes I can avoid in NYC housing court?
Housing Court can be confusing and intimidating. Many tenants get evicted because of simple mistakes. Here are some common mistakes to avoid: 1. Ignoring court papers Many evictions happen because tenants do not answer court papers. When you receive a nonpayment…
How to get a lawyer under the New York City Right to Counsel (RTC) Law?
What is Right To Counsel (RTC)? City law mandates that tenants facing eviction in Housing Court or in NYCHA Termination of Tenancy proceedings should receive free legal representation for those cases. However, there are not enough lawyers for everyone who needs…
How do I get rental assistance when I’m behind on my rent?
New York City tenants can apply for help with back rent through a few different methods, including One Shot Deals, charitable donations, and through housing vouchers, such as FHEPS and CityFHEPS. The first step: Gather your documents One Shot Deal Seeking…
Do you need assistance in Housing Court because of a disability?
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal law that requires all courts to provide assistance to people with disabilities so they can fully participate in the court process. ADA accommodations can include ASL interpreters, devices for those with limited…
What type of housing do I live in?
All New York City tenants have basic rights, such as the right to safe conditions and essential services, due process in housing court before being evicted, and more! The different kinds of rental housing in NYC What type of housing do…
Tips on Gathering Information Before Filing a Case Against Your Landlord
When filing a case against your landlord — such as suing over harassment or to receive repairs — or when responding to an eviction case, it is important to gather basic information about your unit’s status and your building’s ownership. Gathering…
What Should I Know About My Immigration Case Once I’ve Arrived in New York
I just arrived in New York, how do I know when and where I have to attend my first hearing in immigration court? What should I do if my hearing is not in a New York Immigration Court but in a…
Guide to 26 Federal Plaza (NYC Immigration Court)
For immigrants with an appointment at NYC Immigration Court at 26 Federal Plaza—whether with USCIS, ICE, or Immigration Court (EOIR)—getting to the right office can be difficult and even a little scary, especially if English is not your first language. Legal…
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