Free Legal Information for New Yorkers

Who Are We?

The New York Small Claims Advisory Service at Columbia (NYSCAS) is a volunteer organization aiming to help local individuals navigate the New York City small claims court system. Established in 2021, our organization seeks to provide socioeconomically disadvantaged populations with the information necessary to pursue legal redress through the small claims system.

NYSCAS volunteers work directly with clients on matters including labor, housing, and consumer disputes, providing clients with information regarding New York City specific law, small claims procedure, and effective court presentations.

Volunteers spend one semester studying New York City small claims procedure and working alongside a more experienced member on cases. Then, once they have gained experience working on real cases, they become full NYSCAS volunteers who may help members of the community with what they have learned.