Family Legal Care
Overview
Family Legal Care is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing legal guidance and support to families navigating the New York State Family Court system. Founded in 1996, the organization, formerly known as Legal Information for Families Today (LIFT), focuses on empowering unrepresented parents and caregivers to self-advocate in court. Headquartered in New York City, Family Legal Care combines legal guidance, accessible technology, and emotional support to address critical family law issues. The organization has received notable recognition for its work, including awards for excellence in management and community service.
Recent Developments
- October 2024: Family Legal Care continues its commitment to providing virtual legal support through its pro bono platform during the COVID-19 pandemic, enabling homebound or rural litigants to access Family Court resources via video conferencing.
- February 2024: The organization hosted a Free Spanish Webinar titled "Conozca Sus Derechos" to inform Spanish-speaking communities about their rights in Family Court cases, showcasing its efforts to reach diverse communities.
- 2023: Family Legal Care launched the Digital Justice Initiative, addressing gaps in the Family Court’s online resources through tools like guided court forms and a Family Law Navigator.
- The organization has been recognized for its accountability and financial health, maintaining a four-star rating from Charity Navigator.
- Community Outreach: Family Legal Care organized webinars and workshops on topics like child support and custody to educate the public and support self-representation in court.
Company Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | 1996 |
| Headquarters | New York, NY |
| Founders | N/A |
| Revenue | N/A |
| Profits | N/A |
| Key Investors | Ponce De Leon Foundation |
| Industry | Individual and Family Services |
| Number of Employees | 11-50 |
Early History
Family Legal Care began its journey in 1996, driven by the necessity to provide legal assistance to families in New York's Family Court system who were previously without adequate support. The organization was initially established as Legal Information for Families Today (LIFT) and set out to empower parents and caregivers, equipping them with the knowledge and confidence to navigate legal proceedings autonomously. Over time, the demand for its services catalyzed its growth into a comprehensive hub for legal assistance, significantly impacting the local community by reducing the barriers to justice for low-income families.
Company Profile and Achievements
Family Legal Care is dedicated to increasing access to justice in Family Court by offering innovative legal services, leveraging technology, and advocating for systemic reform. Through initiatives such as the Digital Justice Initiative, the organization has developed user-friendly online tools and resources to aid litigants in understanding the legal process. It also runs a helpline that provides immediate legal assistance by phone, email, and live chat, serving over 25,000 individuals annually.
- 2005: Recognized as an exemplary court program by the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts.
- 2008: Received The Samuel J. Award for outstanding community service.
- 2009: Finalist for the New York Times Company Nonprofit Excellence Award.
- Family Legal Care offers guides and educational resources in multiple languages, enhancing accessibility and broadening its reach.
Current Operations and Market Position
Currently, Family Legal Care operates as a leader in the domain of family law assistance, impacting the lives of numerous families across New York. Through partnerships with pro bono attorneys and technology-driven initiatives, it offers support for various family law matters, including child support, custody, guardianship, and domestic violence cases. The organization maintains a strong community presence through events, webinars, and educational programs.
Conclusion
Family Legal Care plays a pivotal role in transforming the accessibility of legal assistance within New York's Family Court system. With its steadfast dedication to helping families self-advocate, complemented by its pioneering use of technology and systemic advocacy, the organization continues to bridge critical gaps in legal services. As it progresses, Family Legal Care is poised to further its impact, advocating for more equitable legal processes and strengthening its community outreach initiatives.