Legal Services of Long Island

Established in 1966, Legal Services of Long Island, formerly known as Nassau/Suffolk Law Services Committee (NSLS), was the first Legal Services Corporation program in New York State and is one of the largest in New York State. The program is committed to helping low-income and disadvantaged individuals vindicate their rights under the law. It provides free legal services in thousands of cases each year as well as legal support to churches, agency and grass roots organizations that work with clients and communities in need. The staff is comprised of attorneys, paralegals, social workers and support staff. Volunteer opportunities are available at all three offices: Hempstead, Islandia, and Riverhead.

Legal Services of Long Island operates a nationally lauded pro bono program with the Bar Association of Nassau County and the Suffolk County Bar Association. Established in 1981, the program provides legal representation in civil cases for individuals meeting low-income guidelines.

Our joint programs, the Pro Bono Project in Suffolk and the Volunteer Lawyers Project in Nassau, have recruited hundreds of private attorneys who provide representation without charge. These projects have greatly expanded our capacity and have become models for other pro bono programs throughout the country.

Ways To Help

• Provide direct client representation
• Be a mentor to other volunteers
• Assist Project Staff with intake, case analysis, case referral, and recruitment of volunteer attorneys
• Volunteer to work at the Nassau Suffolk Law Services (NSLS) office providing assistance to clients in several areas of civil law