Prisoners' Legal Services of New York
Legal ServicesNew York, United States51-200 Employees
Prisoners’ Legal Services of New York (PLS) is a legal services organization that provides high-quality, effective civil legal representation and assistance to indigent prisoners to safeguard their civil and human rights and to advocate for more humane pris ons and criminal justice practices. Based in Albany, New York, the firm operates four regional offices and employs a staff of attorneys and paralegals to serve inmates across the New York State prison system, addressing issues related to conditions of confinement such as access to courts, excessive force, disciplinary hearings, medical and mental health care, and religious expression. Founded in 1976, PLS focuses on cases that meet criteria of importance, potential for success, and resource availability, acknowledging that certain categories, like criminal appeals or family law matters, fall outside its scope. The organization situates itself within the legal services sector, aiming to provide advocacy and representation for prisoners while contributing to broader discussions about prison reform and humane treatment within the state.