If you are considering bankruptcy in New York but cannot afford an attorney, free help is available. The organizations below provide legal assistance at no cost to qualifying residents. You can also visit lawhelp.org/NY for the most up-to-date directory of free legal services in New York.
Need immediate help?
Start with lawhelp.org/NY to find the legal aid office nearest you in New York. You can also call your local bankruptcy court (listed below) for information about self-help resources and pro se filing assistance.
Legal Aid Organizations
Legal Aid Society of New York
The nation's oldest and largest legal aid organization. Consumer law unit handles bankruptcy matters.
Legal Services NYC
Free legal services for low-income New Yorkers in all five boroughs.
Legal Assistance of Western New York (LawNY)
Free legal services in western New York.
Legal Aid Society of Northeastern New York
Serves northeastern New York.
Legal Aid Society of Mid-New York
Serves central New York.
Law School Bankruptcy Clinics
NYU School of Law Clinics
Multiple legal clinics in New York City.
Columbia Law School Clinics
Community-focused legal clinics.
Fordham University School of Law Clinics
Legal clinics in the Bronx.
Brooklyn Law School Clinics
Legal clinics in Brooklyn.
Bar Association Pro Bono
New York State Bar Association Pro Bono
Contact the bar association for pro bono referrals and reduced-fee attorney programs.
Bankruptcy Courts in New York
These are the federal bankruptcy courts serving New York. Many courts offer self-help desks, pro se workshops, and links to local volunteer attorney programs.
U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Southern District of New York
Visit the court website for self-help resources, forms, local rules, and filing information.
U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Eastern District of New York
Visit the court website for self-help resources, forms, local rules, and filing information.
U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Northern District of New York
Visit the court website for self-help resources, forms, local rules, and filing information.
U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Western District of New York
Visit the court website for self-help resources, forms, local rules, and filing information.
Credit Counseling
Federal law requires two counseling sessions for bankruptcy filers: credit counseling before filing, and debtor education before discharge. Visit the U.S. Trustee's list of approved agencies to find providers approved for New York. Many agencies offer free or reduced-cost sessions for low-income individuals.
Additional Resources
- LawHelp.org/NY -- Find free legal help in New York
- NACBA Find an Attorney -- Locate consumer bankruptcy attorneys (some offer free consultations)
- Browse all states -- Back to the full state directory
- 1328(f) Discharge Screener -- Free tool to check if you are eligible for a bankruptcy discharge