Legal Aid and Pro Bono Services in Goshen, NY

Legal Aid Society Introduce

Access to justice is a cornerstone of our legal system, and for many New York residents, finding affordable legal representation is a significant challenge. The Legal Aid Society plays a vital role in bridging this gap by providing essential legal services to those who cannot afford private counsel. Situated in Goshen, NY, this organization is dedicated to offering legal support in various areas, ensuring that individuals in need have access to professional representation. This article provides a detailed overview of The Legal Aid Society, its services, and how it serves the community in Orange County and beyond.

For residents facing legal issues, whether it's a criminal charge or a complex family court matter, the financial burden of hiring an attorney can be overwhelming. The Legal Aid Society aims to alleviate this stress by offering legal support to eligible individuals. By focusing on critical areas of law, they help to protect the rights of vulnerable members of the community. Understanding the scope of their work, their location, and how to contact them is the first step toward getting the help you need. We will delve into the specific types of cases they handle, their commitment to accessibility, and how their services are organized for the public.

The Legal Aid Society is located at 14 Scotchtown Ave, Goshen, NY 10924, USA. The office is positioned in the heart of Orange County, making it a key resource for residents not only in Goshen but also in surrounding towns such as Middletown, Warwick, and Newburgh. Its central location makes it a known and accessible point of contact for individuals seeking legal assistance within the region.

Recognizing the importance of providing an inclusive and welcoming environment, the office has implemented several accessibility features. It offers a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that all visitors can enter the building without difficulty. Additionally, the premises include a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, which provides convenient and easy access from your vehicle. Inside, a wheelchair-accessible restroom is available, further demonstrating the organization's commitment to accommodating everyone. Due to the nature of their work and the volume of people they serve, it is strongly recommended that you schedule an appointment. This helps ensure that an attorney or staff member is available to give you their full attention and that your visit is as productive as possible.

The Legal Aid Society offers a range of critical legal services designed to support individuals who meet specific eligibility requirements. These services are provided by attorneys and legal professionals who are dedicated to upholding justice for all members of the community, regardless of their financial situation.

The key areas of legal support offered include:

Criminal Cases: Providing legal representation for individuals facing criminal charges who cannot afford to hire a private attorney. This ensures that every person has the right to a fair defense, as guaranteed by the law.
Family Court Representation: Assisting clients with legal matters in family court, which can include issues such as child custody, visitation rights, and other family-related disputes. This support is crucial for protecting the rights and well-being of families and children.
Legal Aid: Offering general legal aid to those with low income who are facing various civil legal challenges that affect their livelihood, housing, or personal safety.
Legal Services: A broad category that encompasses all forms of legal assistance, from advice and counsel to full representation, tailored to the specific needs of the client.
Legal Support: Providing a foundational level of support for individuals navigating the legal system, which can include help with paperwork, understanding court procedures, and connecting clients with other relevant resources.

The Legal Aid Society's mission and operations are guided by a commitment to providing essential legal support to the New York community. While the experience may vary, the organization's core features are designed to facilitate access to justice for those who need it most.

Key features of this legal service provider include:

Public Service Focus: The organization is a public-service institution built to serve those without the means for private legal counsel, embodying the principle that legal representation should not be a privilege but a right.
Accessibility: The office is designed to be fully accessible, with a wheelchair-friendly entrance, parking, and restrooms. This ensures that physical limitations do not become a barrier to seeking legal help.
Appointment-Based System: The recommendation for appointments helps to manage the high demand for services and ensures that when a client meets with a legal professional, they have dedicated time to discuss their case thoroughly.
Comprehensive Legal Support: They offer a range of services covering different aspects of law, from criminal to family court matters, providing a broad spectrum of assistance to the community.
Restroom Amenities: The availability of a restroom on-site adds to the comfort and convenience for clients during their visits, especially for those with longer appointments.

For individuals in need of legal assistance from The Legal Aid Society, the following contact information is provided:

Address: 14 Scotchtown Ave, Goshen, NY 10924, USA
Phone: (845) 291-2454
Mobile Phone: +1 845-291-2454

It is important to remember that due to the high volume of requests, calling ahead to schedule an appointment is a crucial step in the process. This helps the organization manage its caseload and allows for a more focused consultation when you arrive.

Choosing a legal aid organization is often a matter of necessity, and for many New York residents, it is the only path to legal representation. While the provided customer reviews point to significant challenges in customer service and the intake process, it is important to understand the context of such institutions. Legal aid offices operate under immense pressure, with high caseloads and often limited resources. The reviews highlight a critical need for improvement in communication and client intake, but they do not negate the fundamental purpose of the organization: to provide a legal lifeline to those who would otherwise have none.

What is worth choosing about an organization like The Legal Aid Society is its mission itself. It serves a vital role in our justice system, providing representation to the accused and to individuals facing personal crises in family court. For someone without income or a way to afford private counsel, this is often the only available option. The reviews, while concerning, serve as a reminder for potential clients to be prepared, persistent, and patient. They also underscore the critical importance of a system that works to support those in need. While the experience may have been difficult for some, the Legal Aid Society remains a crucial part of the legal landscape for eligible New Yorkers, offering legal services in criminal and family court matters that they would not otherwise have access to. Despite the challenges, its existence means that more people have the opportunity to have their day in court and a chance at justice.

Legal Aid Society Services

Attorney
Criminal Cases
Family Court Representation
Legal Aid
Legal Services
Legal Support

Legal Aid Society Details

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Wheelchair accessible restroom

Amenities
Restroom

Planning
Appointments recommended

Legal Aid Society Photos

No photos available at the moment.

Legal Aid Society Location

Legal Aid Society

New York Orange County Goshen Scotchtown Avenue

14 Scotchtown Ave, Goshen, NY 10924, USA

Legal Aid Society Reviews

An average rating of ★2.6 from 39 user reviews.

secretariescallpeoplequestioncourtinformationincomeboyfriendconsiderationvoicemail

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

The lady that "helps" on the phone really needs some costumer service skills. If you don't like what you do, do something else. I wish we could transcript the call to show here but, I tried to be as polite as possible but she just really doesn't have the "people" touch or skills. Even though the call lasted 30 seconds, I could NEVER be able to recommend this to ANYONE seeking true HELP.
April 24 · Jorge Drijas
Absolutely appalling experience with this Public Defender's Office.This office is, by far, the most unprofessional and downright dismissive institution I’ve ever encountered. I understand that this review is lengthy, but please bear with me—this needs to be said.My boyfriend, who is currently unemployed and without any income, has been desperately trying to obtain legal representation through the Orange County Public Defender’s Office. Because he cannot afford private counsel, we expected this office to do what it’s supposed to: help people in need. Instead, we were met with arrogance, incompetence, and blatant disregard for due process.From the very first phone call, the receptionist was astonishingly rude. After my boyfriend explained his financial situation—off the top of his head—she immediately cut him off and said he “makes too much money” to qualify. No documentation was reviewed. No application processed. No questions asked. Just a flat-out rejection based on nothing but a random number he gave her in conversation.For comparison: Dutchess County had no problem reviewing his actual financial documents and confirming that he did qualify for a public defender. Orange County, however, insisted otherwise without any factual basis or verification. And every time we tried to follow up, we were stonewalled with the same vague answer: “He doesn’t qualify.” No explanation. No guidance. Just dismissal.Fast forward to now—April 2025—and we have been in front of the judge about five times. Each time, we’ve explained that the Public Defender’s Office refuses to provide representation. The judge continues to push the case forward, knowing full well that my boyfriend is going in without an attorney. It feels like he’s being set up to fail.To make matters worse, when he finally got in touch with the supervisor, Andrew Greer, we were shocked to find that he was just as rude and unhelpful as the secretary. Even after submitting documentation proving his financial hardship, Mr. Greer claimed he didn’t believe my boyfriend and demanded even more information—without saying what was needed. During an in-person visit, he not only refused to help, but he actually told my boyfriend and his mother that my boyfriend owed him an apology (for what exactly, we still don't know) and threatened to walk him over to the judge to get him arrested.Then came the lie: Mr. Greer accused my boyfriend of telling the judge that he (Greer) had missed a court appearance—a claim my boyfriend never made. Basically, Mr Greer was supposed to meet my BF at his last court appearance to "go over his finances and romrell the judge that he is not representing him at this time." Long story short, my boyfriend was not able to make it to court that day at all, nor did he tell the judge anything along those lines Thankfully, he was able to call the court clerk and have them confirm that he never said that, completely exposing Mr. Greer’s falsehood.And finally, the most disgusting part: Mr. Greer told my boyfriend that the only way he would receive public representation was if he were already in jail.What kind of broken system is this? A person has to be incarcerated just to get legal help?This office is a disgrace to the justice system. The people working here treat vulnerable individuals with contempt, lie to cover their mistakes, and put lives at risk by refusing to do their jobs. If this office won’t help the people it was built to serve, it needs to be shut down and rebuilt from the ground up—with people who actually care about justice and human rights.
April 21 · christine birnbaum
Absolutely appalling experience with this Public Defender's Office.This office is, by far, the most unprofessional and downright dismissive institution I’ve ever encountered. I understand that this review is lengthy, but please bear with me—this needs to be said.My boyfriend, who is currently unemployed and without any income, has been desperately trying to obtain legal representation through the Orange County Public Defender’s Office. Because he cannot afford private counsel, we expected this office to do what it’s supposed to: help people in need. Instead, we were met with arrogance, incompetence, and blatant disregard for due process.From the very first phone call, the receptionist was astonishingly rude. After my boyfriend explained his financial situation—off the top of his head—she immediately cut him off and said he “makes too much money” to qualify. No documentation was reviewed. No application processed. No questions asked. Just a flat-out rejection based on nothing but a random number he gave her in conversation.For comparison: Dutchess County had no problem reviewing his actual financial documents and confirming that he did qualify for a public defender. Orange County, however, insisted otherwise without any factual basis or verification. And every time we tried to follow up, we were stonewalled with the same vague answer: “He doesn’t qualify.” No explanation. No guidance. Just dismissal.Fast forward to now—April 2025—and we have been in front of the judge about five times. Each time, we’ve explained that the Public Defender’s Office refuses to provide representation. The judge continues to push the case forward, knowing full well that my boyfriend is going in without an attorney. It feels like he’s being set up to fail.To make matters worse, when he finally got in touch with the supervisor, Andrew Greer, we were shocked to find that he was just as rude and unhelpful as the secretary. Even after submitting documentation proving his financial hardship, Mr. Greer claimed he didn’t believe my boyfriend and demanded even more information—without saying what was needed. During an in-person visit, he not only refused to help, but he actually told my boyfriend and his mother that my boyfriend owed him an apology (for what exactly, we still don't know) and threatened to walk him over to the judge to get him arrested.Then came the lie: Mr. Greer accused my boyfriend of telling the judge that he (Greer) had missed a court appearance—a claim my boyfriend never made. Basically, Mr Greer was supposed to meet my BF at his last court appearance to "go over his finances and romrell the judge that he is not representing him at this time." Long story short, my boyfriend was not able to make it to court that day at all, nor did he tell the judge anything along those lines Thankfully, he was able to call the court clerk and have them confirm that he never said that, completely exposing Mr. Greer’s falsehood.And finally, the most disgusting part: Mr. Greer told my boyfriend that the only way he would receive public representation was if he were already in jail.What kind of broken system is this? A person has to be incarcerated just to get legal help?This office is a disgrace to the justice system. The people working here treat vulnerable individuals with contempt, lie to cover their mistakes, and put lives at risk by refusing to do their jobs. If this office won’t help the people it was built to serve, it needs to be shut down and rebuilt from the ground up—with people who actually care about justice and human rights.
April 21 · christine birnbaum
I had several representation from Legal Aid Society, never did I had a negative experience with them. Sometimes we need to check us before we past judgement onto others, cuz every time you point a finger at someone theres 3 coming back to you. today as I was reading the reviews for this Legal Aid Society, and I don't find the negative reviews to be helpful at all. I had a very positive experience when dealing with everyone there. Yes there are a lot of people that need help that go to this place. So maybe the secretaries are abrupt and quick to transfer you to the attorneys voicemail. Christopher Pezzullo, my attorney was very helpful there was a little communication, but it wasn't necessary. He handled my case completely professionally. He talked to me when I needed to hear from him. People have to remember they are not the only one in a long list of others in need of these lawyers assistance. I am sure the staff is overwhelmed and doing the best that they can. Those that can't understand this are just selfish and ignorant. You are not the only person with an issue that needs to be dealt with in court. Maybe give that some consideration next time you're writing a negative review, remember treat people the way you want to be treated.Sincerely Roberto Sanchez
August 27 · Roberto Sanchez
I was reading the reviews for this Legal Aid Society, and I don't find the negative reviews to be helpful at all. I had a very positive experience when dealing with everyone there. Yes there are a lot of people that need help that go to this place. So maybe the secretaries are abrupt and quick to transfer you to the attorneys voicemail. Kate Bellingham, my attorney was very helpful there was a little communication, but it wasn't necessary. She handled my case completely professionally. She talked to me when I needed to hear from her. People have to remember they are not the only one in a long list of others in need of these lawyers assistance. I am sure the staff is overwhelmed and doing the best that they can. Those that can't understand this are just selfish and ignorant. You are not the only person with an issue that needs to be dealt with in court. Maybe give that some consideration next time you're writing a negative review. Sincerely Jim storms
August 06 · James Storms
I had several representation from Legal Aid Society, never did I had a negative experience with them. Sometimes we need to check us before we past judgement onto others, cuz every time you point a finger at someone theres 3 coming back to you. today as I was reading the reviews for this Legal Aid Society, and I don't find the negative reviews to be helpful at all. I had a very positive experience when dealing with everyone there. Yes there are a lot of people that need help that go to this place. So maybe the secretaries are abrupt and quick to transfer you to the attorneys voicemail. Christopher Pezzullo, my attorney was very helpful there was a little communication, but it wasn't necessary. He handled my case completely professionally. He talked to me when I needed to hear from him. People have to remember they are not the only one in a long list of others in need of these lawyers assistance. I am sure the staff is overwhelmed and doing the best that they can. Those that can't understand this are just selfish and ignorant. You are not the only person with an issue that needs to be dealt with in court. Maybe give that some consideration next time you're writing a negative review, remember treat people the way you want to be treated.Sincerely Roberto Sanchez
August 27 · Roberto Sanchez
I had a court case in New Windsor and I called these people when I got on the phone with them. They were the rudest people I've ever dealt with in my entire life and they wanted to know the income of my boyfriend and if I didn't give that information they wouldn't represent me. Not only did I speak to two or three people which all them. One had one worse attitude than the other but they hung up the phone on me. They didn't care about nothing but how much money my boyfriend made and these are the people that are supposed to represent you if you can. Stay far far far far away from these people at any cost
March 13 · Samanth Dagostini
I had a court case in New Windsor and I called these people when I got on the phone with them. They were the rudest people I've ever dealt with in my entire life and they wanted to know the income of my boyfriend and if I didn't give that information they wouldn't represent me. Not only did I speak to two or three people which all them. One had one worse attitude than the other but they hung up the phone on me. They didn't care about nothing but how much money my boyfriend made and these are the people that are supposed to represent you if you can. Stay far far far far away from these people at any cost
March 13 · Samanth Dagostini