Virtual Court Access Network

 

Virtual Court Access Network (VCAN) Program Overview

What is the Virtual Court Access Network program? 
The VCAN program is a partnership between the community and the NYS Unified Court System to provide accessibility to any person seeking assistance from the Court System who may not have access to a home computer and/or internet service, who may need some assistance in accessing the courts, or who may not be able to be able to get to the physical courthouse for a variety of reasons such as transportation, child care, or personal safety. With this new program, you can now have your court needs met in a friendly, safe, and secure environment, that is close to your home and may even be located at your own religious center, public library, or other community space.

What can you do at a VCAN facility?

  • Attend a scheduled court appearance virtually
  • File paperwork with a court
  • Access Do-It-Yourself (DIY) documents as well as the Court Help site
  • Access Ask a Law Librarian
  • Access other resources in the community such as Pro Bono (free or sliding scale) Attorney’s for more complex legal matters, domestic violence services, mental health services, etc.
  • And so much more! Have questions about whether your court needs can be met at a VCAN location? Call or email and speak to someone directly; trained court staff are here to help.

What to expect when going to a VCAN facility:

When you arrive at a VCAN facility, a trained court staff member or trained community member, will greet you and then show you to the private space that has been allocated for this program. They can then assist you to the extent possible, to fit the needs of your visit. The space has a computer, printer, scanner, and a camera for virtual communication. 

Areas of assistance available:

  • Adoptions
  • Child Support
  • Custody/Visitation
  • Divorces
  • Domestic Violence
  • Estates
  • Foreclosures
  • Guardianships
  • Landlord/Tenant
  • Orders of Protection
  • Wills

Please note: Areas of assistance may not be limited to those listed above


 

 

VCAN Contact Information

How do I access VCAN?

To make an appointment to use a VCAN facility, either call or email and a trained court staff member will guide you through the intake process to determine the area of need, date, time, and location for the appointment.

3JDVCAN@nycourts.gov

518-285-6165

The help line is monitored by trained court staff Monday – Friday from 9:00am – 4:00pm.

 

 

Additional Information

Brochure & Participating VCAN Facilities

Flyer

Legal Assistance Resource Guide


 

Resources