Five law schools across New York State will receive $150,000 each in state funding as part of the Justice For Heroes grant, a statewide initiative aimed at expanding legal support for veterans, service members, and their families.
Announced Monday by the New York State Department of Veterans’ Services (DVS), the funding will support programs at Hofstra University School of Law, Syracuse University College of Law, Cornell Law School, University at Buffalo School of Law, and Albany Law School.
“These grants represent a powerful commitment to those who have worn the uniform,” said DVS Commissioner Viviana M. DeCohen. “Thanks to Governor Hochul’s leadership and vision, we are empowering these law schools to deliver real justice to veterans across our state.”
The Justice For Heroes initiative focuses on closing civil justice gaps by supporting law school programs that provide free legal services to veterans. These services include discharge upgrades, benefits appeals, eviction prevention, and more. Each grant includes $50,000 per year for up to three years, contingent on performance and resources.
Syracuse University will use the funding to expand local services and launch a first-of-its-kind support initiative for military-connected students, faculty, and staff. Hofstra Law plans to strengthen its focus on cases involving military sexual trauma. Cornell Law will invest in case development and personnel to support veterans seeking discharge upgrades and benefits. The University at Buffalo aims to improve access to pension and survivor benefits, particularly for elderly or low-income veterans. Albany Law will use its funds to bolster student training and community partnerships in veterans’ legal services.
“This program is a true investment in dignity and fairness for those who served,” said Joel Evans, Executive Deputy Commissioner of DVS.
To learn more about Justice For Heroes, contact DVS at (518) 474-6114 or visit veterans.ny.gov.
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