Domestic Violence Legal Connection

We can help you find safety and independence from your abuser by providing confidential, free, and low cost legal assistance. The Domestic Violence Legal Connection provides free consultations and pro bono/reduced fee representation in our offices and at domestic violence programs.

We can:

- Explain the law and how the court works
- Discuss your rights and options so you can make informed Choices
- Provide attorney representation
- Make referrals to advocacy, support groups, shelters, and other services

Pro Bono Services:

We provide free legal services to victims of domestic violence who are income eligible or who may not have access to funds.

We offer: - Free consultations on a wide variety of legal issues resulting from domestic violence

- Representation in divorce matters

- Attorneys who will represent you in Family Court to assist you in obtaining an Order of Protection and help you resolve custody and visitation, support, and other legal issues

Reduced Fee Matrimonial Services:

If you do not qualify for our free services due to income or property and can’t afford a private attorney, we may be able to assist you.

We can:

- Draft, negotiate and file separation agreements
- Represent you in contested or uncontested divorces

Sliding scale and other payment options are available. All programs and services have specific eligibility requirements.  Please call us for more information at (518) 435-1770. 

 RESOURCES FOR SURVIVORS

Remember that you are not alone and supports remain available to you.

• The New York State Domestic & Sexual Violence Hotline is 1-800-942-6906,  English & español/Multi-language Accessibility. Deaf or Hard of Hearing: 711.  

• The National Domestic Violence Hotline is 24/7, confidential and free:1-800-799-7233.

• The National Sexual Assault Hotline is 24/7, confidential and free:800.656.HOPE (4673).

• The Strong Hearts Native Helpline for domestic/sexual violence is available 7am-10pm CT, confidential, and specifically for Native communities:1−844-762-8483.

• The Trans LifeLine for peer support for trans folks 9am-3am CT:1-877-565-8860.  This hotline is staffed exclusively by trans operators and is the only crisis line with a policy against non-consensual active rescue.

• The Deaf Hotline is available 24/7 through video phone (1-855-812-1001), email and chat for Deaf, DeafBlind, DeafDisabled survivors.

• National Parent Helpline Monday -Friday 12pm-9am CT emotional support and advocacy for parents:1-855-2736.

You can also contact your local domestic violence program. Here are some useful numbers for those in the Capital District of New York:

• Albany County Equinox, Inc. 24 Hour Hotline: 518-432-7865.

• Rensselaer County § Sexual Assault and Crime Victims Assistance Program (SACVAP): 518 271-3247 § https://www.unityhouseny.org/ 24 Hour Hotline: 518-272-2370.

• Saratoga County https://www.wellspringcares.org/ LLSPRING 24 Hour Hotline: 518-584-8188 o Schenectady County YWCA of Northeastern New York 24 Hour Hotline: 518-374-3386.

Here are a few suggestions for survivors that may make this uncertain time feel a little bit safer:

1.  Create a safety plan.  A safety plan is a personalized, practical plan that includes ways to remain safe while in a relationship, planning to leave, or after you leave. The National Domestic Violence Hotline can help create a safety plan for anyone who is concerned about their own safety or the safety of someone else.

You and your partner may be told by either or both of your employers to work remotely to limit social interaction. Having a safety plan laid out can help you to protect yourself during this stressful time. You can learn more about safety plans here, and you can find an interactive guide to safety planning here.

2.  Reach out for help.  While people are encouraged to stay at home, you may feel isolated from your friends and family. Even if you are isolated, try to maintain social connections online or over the phone, if it is safe to do so, and try to stick to your daily routines as much as possible. See the phone numbers above for assistance. 

 “Everyone I spoke to [at TLP] was patient, and knowledgeable of what I needed to know! So helpful also...I already have recommended your service to several people I know. My attorney kept me informed of everything, so kind and patient, funny too! Thanks to all at The Legal Project.”  

“My attorney and her staff are extremely courteous and professional.”  

“My attorney was very helpful and respectful.  He helped me to get on my feet and then turn my financial life around for the better after my divorce.” 

“You guys were absolutely wonderful to me.  I can’t thank you enough. Thank you for all of your hard work.”  

“I never thought I would get a divorce from my abusive husband.  I got my divorce because of your office.  I have so much hope in my life now.”  

“After putting up for 13 years of abuse from my ex-husband my heart is smiling once again.  I went through so much, and lost all of my belongings.  I never thought I could get a divorce because I’m broke.  I went from just having the clothes on my back, to getting a job, to getting everything back that I lost, to getting a divorce. Thank you so much for your help and for giving me a chance.”