With a focus on family stabilization, we help low-income families and individuals in crisis, providing advice and representation on a range of family law matters. Whether you are seeking to establish paternity, navigate child custody arrangements, or require assistance with guardianship matters, we are here to provide compassionate and expert assistance throughout these challenging times.

 

Custody, Visitation, and Child and Spousal Support:

Access Justice Brooklyn assists individuals and families by offering legal assistance in family court matters. We represent clients in custody and visitation cases by appearing with them in court and/or offering advice and counsel. Through our child and spousal support practice, we assist both custodial and non-custodial parents to ensure fairness and equity in support orders granted by the Kings County Family Court.

Uncontested Divorce:

In New York, many matrimonial attorneys are expensive, and few organizations provide free legal assistance with divorce cases. Access Justice Brooklyn’s self-represented uncontested divorce program offers free legal assistance to anyone seeking divorce from a partner, including those who wish to separate from an abusive partner. We provide clients with an overview of the uncontested divorce process, draft the initial and final divorce pleadings, and explain how to commence the divorce action with the court. Our services always prioritize the safety and confidentiality of our clients.

Article 17A Guardianship:

Since January 2009, Access Justice Brooklyn has assisted parents or other family members with obtaining guardianship of a person with an intellectual or developmental disability. In New York State, parents or guardians of persons with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities are considered the natural guardians of their children until their 18th birthday. If an individual, as a legal adult, is not able to manage on their own, however, a parent or other family member must obtain legal guardianship under Article 17A of the Surrogate’s Court Procedure Act (SCPA).

Access Justice Brooklyn assists with Article 17A guardianship proceedings in Kings County Surrogate’s Court to designate a parent, sibling, other relative, friend or an organization to act on behalf of a person with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities who is 18 years of age or older. Before the court will appoint a guardian, it must be satisfied that the guardianship is necessary and that it is in the best interest of the disabled person. In each case, we conduct an interview with the parent or family member, draft the guardianship petition, and provide instruction about next steps. We also offer representation at guardianship hearings. Our services are free and available to Brooklyn residents.

If you are not a resident of Brooklyn or Access Justice Brooklyn is unable to assist you with the guardianship petition, here is information on starting the process in New York: NY Court Help 17A Guardianship Petition Program.

If you need legal help, you can start an online intake here. If you prefer to speak with staff directly, our intake hours are Monday through Thursday between 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Please call (718) 624-3894 or email us at help@accessjusticebk.org.

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