We are in the business of public service. For more than 65 years, we have made it our mission to help individuals and businesses find the right lawyer to meet their legal needs. Established in 1946, the New York City Bar Legal Referral Service (LRS) is the oldest lawyer referral service in New York State, and the first one in New York City approved by the American Bar Association. The LRS is a not-for-profit organization, founded by the New York City Bar Association (est. 1870) and the New York County Lawyers’ Association (est. 1908) When you call or en español you will be speaking with an attorney. One of our attorney referral counselors takes your call and talks with you about your legal question, or reviews your online referral request. If we determine you will benefit from working with a lawyer, we will refer you to a screened and qualified lawyer. However, sometimes we help you figure out that you don’t need a lawyer. In that case, we will refer you to other helpful resources that might be better or more cost-effective for you. There is no charge to speak with an attorney referral counselor. We’re here to help.