What does Empire Center do?

Empire Justice Center is a statewide, non-profit law firm based in Rochester, New York. Founded in 1973, the organization is dedicated to protecting and strengthening the legal rights of New Yorkers who are poor, disabled, or disenfranchised. Its mission focuses on providing high-quality civil legal representation, advocacy, and support to those in need. The center operates through a comprehensive approach that includes teaching the law, practicing the law, and changing the law. It offers training and technical assistance to legal professionals and community advocates, direct legal assistance, and engages in policy analysis and advocacy. Empire Justice Center addresses a variety of civil legal issues, such as civil rights, domestic violence, immigration, and tenant advocacy, among others. Empire Justice Center also runs specialized programs, including initiatives for education debt assistance and emergency rental support for undocumented immigrants. The organization serves low-income and marginalized individuals across New York State, with a focus on immigrants and those who may not have access to other legal services.