Unfortunately, advocacy and organizing is not always enough to stop your landlord from taking you to court. In that case, you will often benefit from a lawyer’s representation in court. See the below links:
Our list of free legal aid organizations for low-income New Yorkers is here. You can only go to them if you are already in court (you have been served court papers).
See Met Council’s page for paid lawyers you can hire if you are not low-income.
For advice on representing yourself in Housing Court, we recommend you speak with Housing Court Answers.