Western New York Law Center Inc

Since its formation in 1996, WNYLC has committed to its enduring mission to ensure that low-income Western New Yorkers receive a full range of civil legal services, including representation, policy advocacy, and legal education, focused on the areas of housing, income maintenance, and consumer debt.

Units & Descriptions

 Consumer Debt Defense-CLARO

The Consumer Debt Defense Department provides an array of legal services through both full representation and limited scope (via the CLARO-Buffalo legal clinic) to clients that have consumer debt in collections and clients who were sued on a debt. Our Attorneys also bring affirmative claims against debt collectors, debt buyers and creditors; provide post-judgment defense against wage or bank account garnishment, repossession, levies and/or other collection methods.

 Bankruptcy-

The Law Center provides free Chapter 7 bankruptcy services to low-income individuals who are unable to meet their financial obligations to get a fresh financial start. We assist consumers who would otherwise not be able to afford legal counsel by providing a confidential consultation to assess their financial situation and discuss available options, preparing and filing bankruptcy petitions, and step-by-step guidance to help debtors through the often-complicated process.

 Eviction Prevention-

WNYLC represents low-income Western New York tenants facing eviction in nonpayment and holdover proceedings. We ensure tenants receive adequate pre-commencement notices and that their rights are protected throughout the legal proceedings. Our goal is to keep tenants in their homes wherever possible by raising valid defenses to delay, pause, or even prevent an eviction, or by negotiating a settlement with the landlord. 

 Small Business Legal Clinic - SBLC

The Small Business Legal Clinic is a non-profit service for small business owners and entrepreneurs in Erie and Niagara Counties. We offer services such as LLC formation, contract negotiation, and legal advice.

 Vacant & Abandoned Homes- VAP

The Vacant and Abandoned Properties Department comprises of multiple projects addressing vacant and abandoned and zombie properties across Erie County and WNY. The overarching goal of this Department is to address vacancy and blight in a comprehensive and collaborative way. 

 Policy Advocacy & Impact Litigation-

The Law Center engages in political advocacy and impact litigation in order to effectuate systemic changes. We fight for social and economic justice for low-income clients, communities of color, and marginalized groups.

 School Discipline Project – SDP

The School Discipline Project strives to reduce the current racial and special needs disparities in school discipline by teaching the public about Education Law and using the safeguards within the Education Law in our client’s disciplinary proceedings. We believe that obtaining an education is one of the keys to escaping multigenerational poverty. By advocating for students in the community and in hearings we can change outcomes. We are deeply committed to working with families, students, parent & community organizations, as well as the school district to provide students with quality educational environment while making sure every student feels a sense of belonging in their school.

Buffalo East Home Assistance Fund - BEHAF

BEHAF is a Governor funded program that assists homeowners in eastside of buffalo. This program helps to pay what is past due on client’s city county taxes, user fees, and water bill to prevent foreclosure.