Suarez v. The New York City Department of Human Resources Administration et al

Filing 8

ORDER Plaintiff Victor L. Suarez, now acting in a pro se capacity, brings this action alleging employment discrimination in violation of Title VII, 42 U.S.C. §§ 2000e, et seq., New York State Human Rights Law, N.Y. Exec. Law. §§ 2 90, et seq., and New York City Human Rights Law, NY City Admin. Code §§ 8-101, et seq. On January 20, 2010, Plaintiff submitted an application requesting counsel. Cooper v. A. Sargenti, Inc., 877 F2d 170, 172 (2d Cir. 1989). As a threshold matter, a plaintiff must demonstrate that her claim has substance or a likelihood of success. See Hodge v. Police Officers, 802 F.2d 58, 60 (2d Cir. 1986). In addition, in reviewing a request for counsel, the Court must be cognizant of the fact that volunteer attorney time is a precious commodity, and thus should not grant appointment of counsel indiscriminately. Cooper, 877 F.2d at 172. A more fully developed record will be necessary before this Court can determine if Plaintiff s chances of suc cess warrant the appointment of counsel. Therefore, Plaintiffs application is denied without prejudice to its renewal at such time as the existence of potentially meritorious claims may be demonstrated. Additionally, Plaintiffs motion to "revers e and deny" the extension of time for Defendant to respond granted on January 8, 2010 (Docket No.5), is denied. This Court reminds Plaintiff that the pro se office is a valuable resource in assisting litigants, such as plaintiff, who proceed in federal court without the assistance of counsel. Plaintiff is strongly encouraged to contact the pro se office for information: Pro Se Clerk's Office Southern District of New York 500 Pearl Street New York, New York 10007 (212) 805-0175. SO ORDERED (Signed by Judge William H. Pauley, III on 1/25/2010) (jmi)