Freelance Isn't Free Day at the Hub!

Workshops will be In-Person ONLY!

Join us on May 15th to celebrate the seventh anniversary of the landmark Freelance Isn't Free Act. This act serves to protect freelancers and ensure they receive the financial compensation they're entitled to, as well as provide important legal safety nets should a client attempt to avoid payment. We’ll have a full day of events, featuring speakers who can provide a better understanding of all the Freelance Isn’t Free act offers, review important contract basics, and opportunities to connect with your fellow freelancers.

11 AM to 12:30 PM

A speaker from the Department of Consumer Worker Protections will provide a primer on how to utilize the Freelance Isn’t Free act, should you need to pursue payment from an unresponsive client. They’ll provide details on how to file a complaint with the city, access court navigation services, and should the situation escalate, ensure that you collect the financial restitution you’re owed. A lawyer will also be present to discuss writing a demand letter and how to prepare for Small Claims Court, if that option is needed.

12:30 PM to 2 PM

Catered lunch at the Hub.

2 PM to 4 PM

Are you up-to-speed on your employment rights and protections? Join us for a game-changing workshop as we demystify the legal landscape surrounding freelance work. In this class, will equip you with the tools and insights you need to thrive in today's gig economy. Whether you're a freelance writer, designer, consultant, or artist, understanding employment law is essential for safeguarding your rights and securing fair treatment.

4 PM to 6 PM

Cap off the day with an informal happy hour and a chance to get to know your fellow freelancers. Drinks and refreshments will be served.

Partnered with:

The NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP)—formerly the Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA)—protects and enhances the daily economic lives of New Yorkers to create thriving communities. DCA licenses more than 59,000 businesses in more than 50 industries and enforces key consumer protection, licensing, and workplace laws that apply to countless more. By supporting businesses through equitable enforcement and access to resources and, by helping to resolve complaints, DCA protects the marketplace from predatory practices and strives to create a culture of compliance. Through its community outreach and the work of its offices of Financial Empowerment and Labor Policy & Standards, DCA empowers consumers and working families by providing the tools and resources they need to be educated consumers and to achieve financial health and work-life balance. DCA also conducts research and advocates for public policy that furthers its work to support New York City’s communities.

Founded in 1969, Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts (VLA) is the leading legal aid and education organization dedicated to New York artists and its arts and cultural organizations. VLA strives to protect the artistic community’s livelihoods, businesses, and creative works through access to dedicated legal representation and focused innovative education programs.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Freelancers Hub, 241 37th Street, Brooklyn, United States