Woman in despair

Domestic Violence Legal Connection

When you need help, you can count on us.

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.

Resources For Survivors

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

1-800-942-6906 English & Español/Multi-language Accessibility. Deaf or Hard of Hearing: 711.

1-800-799-7233 24/7, confidential and free

800.656.HOPE (4673) 24/7, confidential and free

1−844-762-8483 domestic/sexual violence is available 7am-10pm CT, confidential, and specifically for Native communities

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

1-855-812-1001 available 24/7 through video phone, email and chat for Deaf, DeafBlind, DeafDisabled survivors.

1-855-2736 Monday -Friday 12pm-9am CT emotional support and advocacy for parents

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
  • Schenectady County YWCA of Northeastern New York 24 Hour Hotline: 518-374-3386.

Ways to Feel a Little Bit Safer

  • 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.
  • 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.