Legal Aid Society

Standing with Immigrants

We provide urgent legal services to reunify families and assist low-income immigrants in obtaining lawful status, applying for citizenship, and defending against deportation.

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Every day, in courthouses and communities across the city, we advocate for the rights of all New Yorkers. Learn more about the services we provide.

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Making a Difference

Projects, Units & Initiatives

Our specialized teams have experience working on nearly every area of law that impacts New Yorkers. Explore the ways we fight on behalf of clients and communities.

A Day in the Life

Advocating for Vulnerable Youth in the Immigration Law Unit

Since 2016, Elizabeth “Liz” Rieser-Murphy has aided with multiple immigration crises, adapting to changing policies under two very different administrations. But, amongst all the changing legislation, what has stayed consistent is her unwavering dedication to representing youth coming to the United States for a better life.

Elizabeth “Liz” Rieser-Murphy  Immigrant Law Unit 

Our Impact

Client Stories: Darcelle Joyeau Is a Teacher, DACA Dreamer

Darcelle has lived in New York City since she was four years old, but her immigration status remains uncertain as Congress has yet to pass the DREAM Act.

By the Numbers

Our work reunifies families and assists low-income immigrants in obtaining lawful status, applying for citizenship, and defending against deportation so everyone has an equal chance to thrive in New York City.

40%

New York City has 3.3 million foreign-born immigrants, from more than 150 countries, who comprise nearly 40% of the City population.

6,600

Abused, abandoned, and neglected immigrant youth were granted SIJS status and set on the path toward citizenship as a result of our legal advocacy.

5x

Represented immigrants who were never detained were nearly 5x more likely than unrepresented counterparts to obtain relief.

A contribution to The Legal Aid Society is about more than money.

Every donation helps us offer essential legal services to thousands of vulnerable New Yorkers, helping people buy food, pay rent, and care for themselves and their families.

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