Who is considered a qualified third party?
A “qualified third party” is the phrase used in the law to describe the person to whom you or a member of your household reported the domestic violence. The qualified third party can provide a written statement to your landlord as proof that you or a member of your household are a victim of domestic violence.1 A qualified third party must be one of the following:
- any law enforcement officer;
- an employee of a state court;
- an attorney;
- a physician, psychiatrist, psychologist, social worker, registered nurse, therapist or clinical professional counselor licensed to practice in any state;
- a person who works for a government or non-profit organization that advises or provides services to people regarding domestic violence; or
- any member of the clergy of a church or religious society or denomination.2
1 NY Real Prop § 227-c(2)(c)(iv)
2 NY Real Prop § 227-c(2)(A)