Disaster Victims Eligible For Disaster Legal Services

Release Date: August 20, 2004 Release Number: 1539-010

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Orlando, FL -- More than 300 lawyers and legal experts from across the state of Florida are available throughout the state’s disaster declared counties to provide free legal assistance and counseling to individuals affected by Hurricane Charley.

Victoria Childs, disaster legal services program coordinator, said the legal assistance program is implemented by the American Bar Association's Young Lawyers Division under agreement with the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

"We are available to help immediately with insurance claims; counseling; landlord/tenant problems; replacement of wills and other important documents destroyed or lost. Persons in need of legal help are urged to contact disaster legal services toll-free, 1-866-550-2929."

Childs explained that individuals calling the legal service line should be prepared to discuss their particular problems and provide a phone number where they may be reached. Once in receipt of personal information, the Florida Bar Association will contact a local lawyer to be assigned to the case. This person will then contact the victim.

Attorneys may also be present at Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) for face-to-face discussions at any of the convenient locations throughout the 25 declared disaster counties. Once locations are determined, local media outlets will inform the public.

For other forms of disaster assistance, victims are urged to contact the FEMA registration number, 1-800-621-3362. For the hearing impaired, call TTY 1-800-462-7586.

On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. FEMA's continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.