Empowering Communities Through Access to Justice
Who We Are
Volunteers of Legal Service (VOLS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing free, civil legal services to low-income and under-resourced New Yorkers. Founded in 1984, VOLS was established in response to severe federal government budget cuts to legal services. Since its inception, VOLS has been committed to dramatically increasing pro bono service in New York City's underserved communities.
Our Purpose
Our mission is to provide high-quality legal services to those who need them most, regardless of their background or circumstances. We believe that everyone deserves access to justice, regardless of their socio-economic status, age, race, ability, gender, and LGBTQIA+ identity, veteran and immigration status. At VOLS, we strive to bridge the access to justice gap by harnessing the power of New York City's private bar and community-based organizations.
Our Partners
Our partnerships with local institutions such as schools, senior centers, or economic development centers enable us to offer services where and when they are needed most. We also work closely with law firms and corporate law departments, as well as community-based groups, to provide free legal services to those in need.
Our Services
VOLS offers a range of services through six law projects and initiatives:
- Benefits Law Project: Assists low-income individuals in accessing government benefits
- Children's Project: Provides legal services to children and families
- Immigration Project: Helps immigrants navigate the immigration process
- Incarcerated Mothers Law Project: Supports incarcerated mothers in accessing legal services
- La Extension Comunitaria Para Adultos Mayores: Serves the needs of low-income and under-resourced adults
- Microenterprise Project: Empowers entrepreneurs with legal services
- Senior Law Project: Provides legal services to seniors
- Veterans Initiative: Supports veteran-themed legal services
Our Leadership
Abja Midha is our Executive Director, leading the organization with a deep passion for closing the access to justice gap for New Yorkers. Antony L. Ryan serves as our Board Chair, guiding the organization's strategic direction.
Our Impact
In the last year, VOLS services have benefited 4,350 New Yorkers in underserved communities. We are proud of our impact and will continue to work tirelessly to provide high-quality legal services to those who need them most.
Get Involved
Whether you're a legal professional, community leader, or passionate advocate, we invite you to join the VOLS community. Explore our website to learn more about volunteer opportunities, career openings, and ways to support our mission.
Communication and Response Time
The reviews indicate that the staff's response time was generally prompt, with some reviewers noting that they received helpful responses quickly. However, there were instances where communication broke down, and responses were delayed or missed.
Helpfulness and Assistive Nature
Some reviewers praised the staff's helpfulness and patience, with one reviewer specifically mentioning that an attorney offered "patience and knowledge." However, others found the staff unhelpful or unresponsive, feeling that their needs were not being met.
Professionalism and Friendliness
The reviews suggest that the staff was generally friendly and professional, with some reviewers mentioning that they felt comfortable and at ease during their interactions. However, one reviewer questioned the professionalism of the management team.
Overall Experience
The reviews indicate that the overall experience was mixed, with some reviewers having positive experiences and others feeling frustrated or disappointed.
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