Legal Aid Society

The Legal Aid Society is one of the oldest and largest nonprofit organizations in the United States that provides free legal services for low-income individuals. The society manages a staff of more than 1,000 people. Founded in 1876, it specializes in the areas of civil, criminal and juvenile rights. The Legal Aid Society maintains a network of neighborhood and courthouse offices at over 25 locations in nearly five counties in New York City. It represents low-income families on matters related to housing, domestic violence, employment and immigration. The society protects the legal rights of prisoners through law reform and class action litigation. It assists taxpayers on various issues that include child tax credit, innocent spouse relief, employee classification and filing status. In addition, the society offers internship and externship programs for law students.