Volunteer Lawyers Project of CNY

This is just in reference of one of the tenant lawyers who advocates for slum lords. We already knew we had legal grounds to break a lease based on our own research and advice from the union, but wanted to get a lawyer's opinion about it. He kept shrugging his shoulders when we presented him with all our data showing proof that our landlord was breaking the law. Then he proceeded to gaslight us about rental conditions, stating that we would be lucky to find a place that met basic standards of the warrant of habitability unless we wanted to pay $5000 a month in Syracuse. Rest assured we found a better lawyer who confirmed our thoughts and process. We also found a better place and, of course, did not have to pay that much. I am just writing this so people do not get discouraged by crap advice and settle for less than what they are paying for. Check in with the Tenant's Right's Union and a different lawyer if anyone tries to make you believe differently when you are being treated unfairly. Not standing up for yourself because of poor counsel or lack of knowledge is how slum lords keep getting away with what they are doing.

Called up for legal advice and the receptionist actually hooked me up with the PDF I needed for power of attorney!! These people are legit. Absolutely go with them...they are going places! Thanks again guys!:)

I spoke with Kristin and she was more than helpful, she went above and beyond to find me the right lawyer that I needed. Just speaking with her I knew she would point me in the right direction and she did. Very professional and helpful.

So my court appointed lawyer does nothing. Gave me the wrong court date which made me late. Couldn't go over any of my documents I needed or had to present the judge. But the job search lawyer was incredible.

VLP provides access to legal assistance to individuals and families who might otherwise have no access to justice, particularly in civil legal matters. They are incredible! The staff at VLP are organized and supportive, providing volunteers with resources and guidance needed to help clients. Their commitment to pro bono work helps people in vulnerable situations, and also fosters a sense of community among the legal professionals involved. If you are a paralegal, attorney, or community member looking for an opportunity to contribute positively, Voluntary Lawyers Project is an outstanding organization making a realtime impact. VLP is an organization where you can contribute your focus, time, and other resources and you will see and feel lives change in profound and meaningful ways.

What a joke! They only let you talk to a lawyer ONCE, the lawyer then says they have your back and not to worry because if you need them they are there and will be your defense in court if needed. NOT. Then the intake lady gives you attitude, mind you I’m in the middle of a huge flooding problem which turned mold and the landlord thinks it’s okay for my kids to live in it, and then the intake lady hangs up on me after being absolutely RUDE. DISGUSTING. No one should be treated that way when they are literally fighting a landlord and trying to find a suitable home for their young children! This place is USELESS!

They also occasionally provide little informational group meetings for the low-income public, at places like the Samaritan Center on State Street, making people aware of their legal rights.