Over 600 public defenders, civil legal services attorneys, and other lawyers serving the public interest signed onto a letter calling on Governor Hochul and the New York State Legislature to include legislation in the upcoming budget that would bolster the District Attorney and Indigent Legal Services Attorney Loan Forgiveness (DALF) program.

“Our public interest attorneys work day-in and day-out for their clients, and they deserve relief from the crippling student loan payments that are inhibiting their ability to both effectively serve their clients and pay their own bills,” said Twyla Carter, Attorney-in-Chief and Chief Executive Officer of The Legal Aid Society.

“Rising attrition levels across our organizations — a direct result of shouldering our attorneys with additional financial burdens like student loan payments — severely hinder the access low-income New Yorkers have to valiant, high-quality representation,” she continued. “Governor Hochul and the New York State Legislature must ensure that this legislation is prioritized in the upcoming budget to keep our justice system fair and accessible for all.”

“Astronomical student loan bills and increased living costs continue to force more of our union members out of public service careers. Yet, we know how much experience matters when it comes to legal advocacy,” said Lisa Ohta, President of the Association of Legal Aid Attorneys (UAW Local 2325). “All New Yorkers deserve experienced lawyers by their side in court. Increasing the HESC/DALF award will make it more sustainable for our members to remain where they belong, serving New Yorkers and their communities.”