Hate crimes are crimes that are motivated by prejudice or bias and are usually violent. Victims of hate crimes, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity may be eligible for compensation and free legal help.
In New York, there are several organizations and resources available to provide free legal help to LGBTQ+ individuals who are victims of hate crimes. NY Crime Victims Legal Help provides a Legal Help Directory where victims of hate crime can find a lawyer to get free legal help. If you or someone you know is a victim of a hate crime, reaching out to these organizations can help ensure that you receive the support and assistance you need.
Additionally, victims of crime, including hate crimes, may have many out-of-pocket losses suffered as a result of the crime, and may be eligible for financial compensation. This can include medical and mental health care costs, lost income, repairing or replacing damaged or lost property, and other costs related to the crime. The Victim Compensation Online Claim Application Guide helps New Yorkers determine if they’re eligible to receive compensation, offers page by page instructions to complete the application, and provides information about what happens after a claim is filed.
Visit our Hotlines page to find a number to call or text and other resources in New York State that may be helpful. The New York State Hate Crimes Task Force is available by calling 1.888.392.3644 or texting ‘HATE’ to 81336.