The Legal Aid Society, for the first time in its nearly 150-year history, is proud to announce its inclusion in Newsweek’s esteemed Excellence 1000 Index 2025. Out of more than 25,000 companies reviewed, Newsweek recognized the top 1,000 for this achievement. Legal Aid ranked 785th with a score of 4.1 out of 5, distinguishing itself as one of 11 law firms named to the list and the only nonprofit law firm.

This recognition highlights organizations making outstanding contributions in their respective fields and underscores Legal Aid’s enduring commitment to providing high-quality legal representation to New York City’s most vulnerable residents.

The Excellence 1000 Index 2025, compiled by Newsweek in collaboration with leading research partners, evaluates organizations across industries for their innovation, social impact, and operational excellence. Legal Aid’s inclusion reaffirms its pivotal role as a champion of justice, equity, and systemic change.

“We are honored to be named to Newsweek’s Excellence1000 Index 2025,” said Twyla Carter, Attorney-In-Chief and Chief Executive Officer at The Legal Aid Society. “This distinction is a testament to the unwavering dedication of our staff, who work tirelessly to ensure that every New Yorker, especially those from low-income communities of color, has access to justice. It also reflects our ongoing efforts to address systemic inequities and advocate for policies that uplift the communities we serve.”

This recognition comes on the heels of several critical victories for Legal Aid, which include securing a contempt finding against the City for failing to improve conditions at Rikers Island; successfully defending the New York Rent Stabilization Law against landlord challenges; advancing policy priorities with Governor Kathy Hochul enacting important legislation championed by Legal Aid; and receiving a historic $8 million donation from the MacKenzie Scott Foundation.