COLUMBIA, S.C. – Free Legal Help for Disaster Survivors
In the wake of Hurricane Helene, a helping hand is being extended to those in need in South Carolina. If you or someone you know has been affected by this natural disaster, it’s important to know that free legal assistance is available to disaster survivors. The services are specifically aimed at residents in several counties, including Abbeville, Aiken, Allendale, Anderson, Bamberg, Barnwell, Beaufort, Cherokee, Chester, Edgefield, Fairfield, Greenville, Greenwood, Hampton, Jasper, Kershaw, Laurens, Lexington, McCormick, Newberry, Oconee, Orangeburg, Pickens, Richland, Saluda, Spartanburg, Union, and York counties, as well as the Catawba Indian Nation.
How to Get Legal Assistance
If you are in need of legal help, don’t hesitate to reach out! You can call the hotline at (803) 799-6653 ext. 120 or (803) 576-3815. These lines are open from 8:30 a.m. to noon and 1:00 to 4:30 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. If you find yourself needing help after hours, you can always leave a message for someone to get back to you. The hotline is designed to connect survivors like you with free legal services, especially for those who may struggle to afford an attorney.
What Services Are Offered?
So, what exactly can Legal Aid assist with? The program is part of the Disaster Legal Services initiative that collaborates with various state and local partners to offer legal support for low-income survivors affected by disasters. This service springs from a partnership between organizations such as the American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division, FEMA, and a host of volunteer attorneys.
It’s important to note, however, that hotline partners may not be able to assist with every case. For instance, if your situation involves a settlement that could include legal fees or an award, the Disaster Legal Services program won’t be able to take on those cases directly. However, they can certainly redirect you to other legal resources that may be able to help.
A Helping Hand in Tough Times
The aftermath of a disaster can be incredibly overwhelming. It’s not just about the physical destruction; the legal complexities that follow can add another layer of stress. That’s why programs like these are so essential. They provide not only legal guidance but also a sense of hope and support during what can feel like a very isolating time.
From navigating landlord-tenant issues and assisting with insurance claims to offering guidance on government aid and much more, the Disaster Legal Services program is committed to easing the burden for survivors.
Get the Support You Need
If you or anyone you know is struggling in the wake of Hurricane Helene, remember that help is just a phone call away. Don’t shy away from reaching out for support. It’s about ensuring everyone has access to the resources they need to get back on their feet. After all, in challenging times, we must look out for one another!
As we move forward, let’s keep reminding each other that getting through a disaster is not something anyone has to face alone. With free legal services available in many communities, there’s hope for a brighter tomorrow.
