NY S09045

Establishes civil right to counsel for veterans at or below 400% of federal poverty guidelines for real property proceedings, sustenance cases, and cases involving children.

Designates qualified legal services agencies as lead organizations to assess eligibility, direct case referrals, and coordinate representation through partnerships with courts, bar associations, and private providers.

Requires lead agencies to utilize pro bono services where practical and track case data quarterly, including case acceptance rates, service levels, and outcomes for clients and courts.

Sets minimum hourly compensation rates for assigned counsel: $50/hour for real property proceedings and $60/hour for sustenance and child-related cases, with no caps on total compensation.

Modifies foreclosure notice requirements to inform mortgagors that veterans may be entitled to assigned counsel if financially unable to obtain representation.