Blog

Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat is an interpreter?When people speak different languages, an interpreter helps them talk to each other.  An interpreter can work in person or over the phone.Is what I say to the interpreter confidential?If your interpreter works for your lawyer or someone else who works in a legal office, everything you say to the interpreter is confidential, which means that it is not shared with anyone outside of the legal office.  You have the right to confirm that the interpreter is working under a confidentiality agreement.

Manhattan Borough President, Gale Brewer launched a series of workshops and forums in early fall 2015, Access Manhattan: Services for Stronger Communities. They have held a number of events since October that will continue through December. On November 4th, there will be a Medicaid/Medicare workshop held at her office, 431 West 125th Street. from 3:00 - 5:00 pm. If you would like to register for this event register here. The event listing states: Having problems with your Medicaid/Medicare health insurance certification and application?

What are the legal services statewide websites? The Legal Services Corporation has funded statewide legal information websites in 54 states and territories. These websites provide accurate, easy-to-understand information in the legal areas most affecting low-income and vulnerable people. These websites also provide information on free legal aid offices (also called legal services) in each state. What is the Legal Services Corporation?

Do you know the differences between Federal, State, & Local Laws?What are Federal laws?Federal laws are rules that apply throughout the United States.  These laws apply in every state, such as:  Immigration law Bankruptcy law Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) laws Federal anti-discrimination and civil rights laws that protect against racial, age, gender and disability discrimination Patent and copyright laws Federal criminal laws such as laws against tax fraud and the counterfeiting of moneyWhat are state laws?There are 50 st

The New York State Attorney General created AGScamHelp.com to help New Yorkers identify scams, find trustworthy help through the Homeowner Protection Program (HOPP), and report potential scammers directly to the Attorney General’s office. prevent New Yorkers from becoming victims of these terrible scams.

Preparing for Court I have an upcoming court date.  What are the first things I should do?At least 1 week before your court date, contact the court if you need: An interpreter Wheelchair accessWhat else can I do to get organized? Make sure you have all the documents you need for your court case. Bring original documents.  (Have copies available in case you need them.) For records from a government office or agency, get certified copies from that agency or government office.  Decide what you want out of the case – this will help you evaluate any possi

Your Right to Assistance in Your Language: Basic Information about Federal Language Access RightsUnder U.S. law, if you are seeking services from a government agency or an organization funded by the U.S. government, you must be provided with assistance in your language.What are language access services?Language access services include a free interpreter and free translation of important documents.

In any emergency, always follow the instructions given by state, local, or tribal emergency management officials.·         FEMA encourages all Americans to visit www.ready.gov or www.listo.gov to learn more about how to be better prepared and how to protect your family during emergencies. ·         Plan for your loved ones’ needs in advance.

LawHelpNY is an online referral & resource center for low to moderate income New Yorkers since 2001. We had a great summer!This summer we welcomed 10 interns working closely with Khatia Mikadze, our Outreach Coordinator. These bright interns brought their passion to many events.

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) launched a smartphone mobile application called IRS2GO. On the app you will be able to check on your tax refund status, locate free tax preparation help, and even make a tax payment from your smartphone. IRS2Go is available on Google Play and the App Store.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GY1IQ6bmLIo