Our Work
BDS is a non-profit law firm that centers our work on people facing harm as a result of an interaction with the legal system. Our office is organized around the specialized work of our staff.
Civil Justice
We protect people’s rights to housing, public benefits, education and employment.
Criminal Defense
Our team zealously defends people who are accused of crimes by working to ensure that their rights are upheld and their cases are resolved with the best possible outcomes.
Family Defense
Keeping children with their families and preventing foster-system involvement is our primary goal.
Immigration
We defend immigrant New Yorkers against deportation, work to minimize the negative immigration consequences of criminal charges and represent people in applications for immigration benefits.
Policy, Advocacy & Reform
Our policy specialists and attorneys drive systemic change through cutting-edge legislative advocacy, litigation and communication.
Social Work
Our social workers use a trauma-informed approach to assist our clients in identifying and achieving their goals.
Community Engagement
We engage communities and empower people by providing critical legal information and offering meaningful opportunities to get involved.