Our Mission:

To provide access to justice and due process to the most vulnerable individuals, children and families in the Western New York community through quality legal representation and assistance.

Who we are:

For over a century, the Legal Aid Bureau of Buffalo has been a pillar of justice and equality in Western New York. Our unwavering commitment to providing comprehensive legal services to the community is demonstrated through our specialized units, each dedicated to addressing the unique needs of our clients.

Please join us in making a significant impact on the lives of those who need it most for Give 716.

Our Units:

Civil Legal Services Unit: Established in 1912, we provide vital support in housing, family matters, financial well-being, veteran services, and re-entry services. In 2023, more than 20,000 individuals benefited from this unit's services alone. Our outreach includes eviction defense, foreclosure prevention, and support for veterans and their families.

Criminal Defense Unit: We offer comprehensive legal representation to individuals accused of crimes, ensuring fair trials and holistic support. In 2023, we assisted 6,427 new clients and secured dismissals in 2,428 cases. Our holistic approach integrates social workers and client advocates to address mental health, substance abuse, and civil legal needs.

Appeals and Post-Conviction Unit: Dedicated to serving our community's most vulnerable and providing justice for all, we are committed to:

• Helping survivors obtain sentencing relief when domestic violence influenced their alleged offenses.
• Proudly securing justice for the wrongfully accused, such as having indictments dismissed due to insufficient evidence.
• Upholding Fourth Amendment rights by challenging improper searches.
• Ensuring timely discovery is observed. We've successfully had charges dismissed for clients when evidence was withheld.

In 2023, we filed 50 briefs and argued 23 appeals, achieving notable successes in reversing and modifying convictions. This year, we have already filed 98% of the briefs that were submitted in 2023.

Attorneys for Children Unit: Advocating for minors in family court, we provide trauma-informed representation to ensure their voices are heard. In 2023, we represented children in 3,523 new petitions, promoting their rights and well-being through holistic support.

Regional Immigration Assistance Center: Supporting non-citizens and their representation in criminal and family court matters, we ensure effective legal assistance.

Our Impact:

30,000+ people were benefited/served in 2023: From youth in the child welfare system to veterans, immigrants, and more, we work tirelessly to protect the rights and voices of vulnerable populations.

Financial Benefits: In 2023, our efforts secured $16 million for low-income Western New Yorkers and taxpayers through our advocacy, representation and advice.

Why Donate?

Your support during Give 716 will enable us to continue our vital work, ensuring justice and equality for all. Your donation will help us:

Expand our outreach and services to more individuals and families in need.

Enhance our holistic representation programs, providing comprehensive support beyond legal services.

Continue advocating for systemic changes that improve the lives of our clients and the community.

The mission of Legal Aid Bureau of Buffalo is to provide access to justice and due process to the most vulnerable individuals, children and families in the Western New York community through quality legal representation and assistance.