New Yorkers age 55+ can reach an attorney directly for legal advice through our Free Senior Legal Advice Helpline. Call 1-844-481-0973 or e-mail helpline@elderjusticeny.org at any time.

For recent press, see CELJ in the News. 

Click on the buttons below to access our Senior Financial Safety Tool and Legal Risk Detector App.

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WELCOME TO THE CENTER FOR ELDER LAW & JUSTICE

We provide free civil legal services to seniors, people with disabilities and low-income populations in nine Western New York counties. Our goal is to protect the essentials of life, such as housing, income, access to health care and protection from abuse.

Our services are funded in part by the Erie County Department of Senior Services, the NYS Office for the Aging, and the Administration on Aging.

HEALTH CARE ADVOCACY

Navigating health insurance and long term care issues can be difficult, but we can guide & advocate on your behalf

ELDER ABUSE PREVENTION

Elder abuse takes many forms and isn’t always apparent. We are committed to helping seniors recognize & stop abuse.

HOUSING

Understand and preserve your shelter options with assistance in avoiding eviction or foreclosure.

CONSUMER PROTECTION

Know your rights & protect your finances. We help with debt problems, scam recovery & identity theft

Our Mission

It is the mission of Center for Elder Law & Justice to improve the quality of life for elderly, disabled and low-income persons in Western New York. We do so through the provision of free civil legal services, primarily to individuals age sixty and over as defined by the federal Older Americans Act, but also to younger disabled and low-income individuals, as funding permits. Our primary goal is to use the legal system to assure that our clients may live independently and with dignity.

Latest News

28 Jul

NYS Power of Attorney Law

Changes to the New York State Power of Attorney law took effect on June 13, 2021.  While these changes to...
13 Jul

 Chafee Funds Program of NYS: COVID-19 Cash Assistance for Foster Youth

submitted by Kiana Stamps, intern The Chafee Program offers assistance to help current and former foster care youth achieve self-sufficiency....
09 Jul

NYS Department of Health Updates Visitation Guidelines for Nursing Homes and Adult Care Facilities

submitted by Bria Lewis, Esq., Staff Attorney On July 8, 2021, the NYS Department of Health (DOH) issued updated guidelines...
A senior couple embracing their grand daughter

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Client Testimonials

"You people are a godsend to sick, elderly, disabled people like me who have neither the strength or knowledge or energy to fight misjustices that go around everyday in America. You are REAL ATTORNEYS not the type on TV who practice law for the money instead of for justice."

"I was very happy with your program. They helped me get this long process over with quickly. Would refer your program to friends and family anytime."

"Is almost worth getting old to become eligible to have the opportunity to access this outstanding service. It was top notch."

"Words cannot express my appreciation for all you did for me. You worked very hard to convince the insurance people to reinstate me. I am also thankful the service was available for help."