Free Legal Assistance

Navigating immigration policies and legal complexities is a significant challenge, particularly for undocumented and immigrant students. The Immigrant Student Success Office (ISSO) recognizes that access to reliable legal information is essential for our students to feel supported, seen, and heard. Our free legal services provide timely, accurate guidance to help students and their families navigate these uncertain times with confidence.

Access Legal Services

Through our partnership with CUNY Citizenship Now!, attorney Luz Medrano offers expert guidance on immigration-related legal matters.

How to Book an Appointment

Appointment Hours

  • Wednesdays: Virtual (9 a.m.–4 p.m.)
  • Thursdays: In person, 3238 Boylan Hall (9 a.m.–4 p.m.)
  • Fridays: Virtual (9 a.m.–4 p.m.)

Workshops and Legal Updates

In addition to consultations, ISSO offers workshops and presentations to empower students and their families with the information they need:

  • Know Your Rights Presentations: These workshops educate students and their families about their legal rights, offering practical steps to protect themselves in various situations.
  • Policy Updates: Regular sessions provide information on changes in immigration laws and policies, including adjustments that may impact DACA, work permits, visa requirements, and other legal matters.
  • Family-Focused Resources: Workshops are tailored to address the concerns of students’ families, ensuring everyone feels informed and supported.

Citizenship Now!

Through a close collaboration with the CUNY Citizenship Now! Program, ISSO provides comprehensive legal support tailored to the needs of our campus community. Services include:

  • Legal Screenings: Personalized evaluations to understand individual circumstances and provide actionable advice.
  • One-on-One Consultations: Private meetings with legal experts to address specific concerns and questions.
  • Workshops and Legal Updates: Informative sessions to keep students and their families informed about their rights and policy changes.

Learn More

Additional Resources

Legal Services

  • Coalition for Immigrant Freedom: Free telephone or video consultations on immigration-related matters.
  • Immigrant Defense Project: Free legal services for immigrants affected by the criminal justice system or facing detention or deportation.
  • Legal Aid Society: Urgent legal services to reunify families and assist you, if you are a low-income immigrant, in obtaining lawful status, applying for citizenship, and defending against deportation.
  • Northern Manhattan Improvement Corporation: Free legal assistance with naturalization/citizenship applications, DACA applications, Battered Spouse Waivers, Temporary Protective Status petitions, and other forms of immigrant relief.
  • Unlocal: Free legal advice and representation to immigrant communities throughout New York State on immigration-related matters.

Why Free Legal Services Matter

Understanding legal rights and options is vital for immigrant and undocumented students to make informed decisions about their future. At ISSO, we are committed to offering a safe space where students can access trusted legal information and resources, ensuring their stability and success.

Your Rights, Your Future

Legal services at ISSO are more than a resource—they are a lifeline for students and families striving to build a brighter future. By offering expert guidance, timely updates, and empowering workshops, we ensure that every student has the tools they need to succeed.

Brooklyn. All in.