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The Legal Aid Society is the primary public defender for New York City youth. We are committed to providing our clients with continuous, comprehensive, and zealous representation. In New York City’s Family and Criminal Courts we counsel youth and families impacted by the Juvenile Justice system—including preventing police interrogations, arranging for safe surrenders, and avoiding court filings through early engagement of legal support and intervention.
Every day, in courthouses and communities across the city, we advocate for the rights of young New Yorkers. Learn more about the services we provide.
Our Juvenile Rights and Criminal Defense Practices ensure that children and adolescents charged with offenses in New York City’s courts receive the most vigorous, informed, and effective defense possible. Our interdisciplinary trial teams and specialized units ensure comprehensive, meaningful representation and support for our youngest clients at every stage of their cases and beyond.
Adolescent Defense
Education Advocacy Project and Education Law Project
Juvenile Rights Practice Special Litigation and Law Reform Unit
Shashwat Dave is serving his community. As a Staff Attorney in our Juvenile Rights Practice, Shashwat gives a voice to children in need, defending their rights in the courtroom.
Working on a longterm project with Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP, the Juvenile Rights Practice Special Litigation Law Reform Unit (SLLRU) committed to reducing the stigma associated with the arrest and prosecution of youth.
In the process, over 15,000 children’s fingerprints have been destroyed since 2016, paving the way for young people to pursue the employment and other opportunities that can lead to the productive, rewarding futures that they deserve. The team continues to closely monitor the NYPD to ensure compliance and protect New York’s children from future violations.
As the public defender for New York City’s children and youth, our Juvenile Rights Practice works on juvenile delinquency cases from arraignment to appeal and beyond, creating systemic change through legislative reform, policy advocacy, and impact litigation.
We represent 90% of children in family court.
Juvenile Rights interdisciplinary teams of Attorneys, Social Workers, Paralegals, and Investigators amplified the voice of children in 70,000+ appearances in Family Court.
Youth clients diverted from Criminal Court to Family Court, pursuant to Raise The Age, where they will be given the chance they deserve.
The Legal Aid Society changes the lives of our clients with the help of our generous supporters.