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About
New York Law School (NYLS) is a private, independent law school located in the Tribeca neighborhood of Manhattan, New York City. Established in 1891 by faculty, students, and alumni who broke away from Columbia Law School, NYLS holds the distinction of being the third oldest law school in New York City and the 50th oldest among ABA-accredited law schools in the United States. The school has a long history of innovation in legal education, including launching one of the nation's first J.D. evening programs in 1894. NYLS emphasizes practical training, public interest law, and adapting legal education to meet contemporary needs through real-world application and community engagement. The school has produced influential alumni in legal, business, and government sectors, including founders and partners at prominent law firms. Notable recent developments include a $5 million donation in 2022 from alumna Judge Judy Sheindlin to establish the Judge Judy Sheindlin Honors Scholars Program supporting women law students.