Chief Judge’s 2026 Hearing on Civil Legal Services in New York, Testimonies  

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The New York Legal Services Coalition

Introduction

Good afternoon, on behalf of the New York Legal Services Coalition (the Coalition) I want to express my gratitude for the opportunity to speak today about the work of our Coalition and our Members.  Our member organizations are deeply appreciative of the work of the Permanent Commission on Access to Justice, our Chief Judge and all of Court Leadership for their steadfast leadership in the effort to ensure equal justice for all New Yorkers.

Legal Aid Society (NYC)

Introduction

Good afternoon. I’m Adriene Holder, and I serve as Chief Attorney of the Civil Practice at The Legal Aid Society. I am also honored to serve as a member of the Permanent Commission on Access to Justice and as a board member of the New York Legal Services Coalition.

Legal Aid Society of Northeastern New York

Introduction

Good morning, Chief Judge Wilson, members of the Court, and distinguished guests.

My name is Nic Rangel, and I serve as the Executive Director of the Legal Aid Society of Northeastern New York, or LASNNY. On behalf of our clients, staff, and Board of Directors, thank you for the opportunity to testify today and thank you for your continued commitment to ensuring that access to justice is not determined by a person's income.

Legal Services of Long Island

Introduction

Thank you, Chief Judge Wilson, and members of the Panel, for the opportunity to appear before you today. I am Rezwanul Islam, Deputy Executive Director of Legal Services of Long Island, and I am grateful for the chance to speak about the impact of Judiciary Civil Legal Services (JCLS) funding on our work and the communities we serve.