COLUMBIA, S.C. – Free Legal Help Available for Hurricane Helene Survivors
If you or someone you know has been affected by the recent Hurricane Helene, we have some good news for you! Free legal assistance is available in multiple counties across South Carolina for those who have been impacted. This initiative can help make a difficult situation just a little easier for disaster survivors.
Who Can Get Help?
The free legal support is available to residents in a wide swath of 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.
This service is specifically for those who feel overwhelmed by legal issues arising from the disaster. It’s important to remember that you are not alone, and help is just a phone call away!
How to Get Assistance
If you find yourself in need of legal support, simply call (803) 799-6653 ext. 120 or (803) 576-3815. You can reach out during the hours of 8:30 a.m. to noon and 1:00 to 4:30 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. Don’t worry if it’s after business hours; leave a message, and someone will get back to you.
What Kind of Help is Offered?
The Disaster Legal Services (DLS) program is a collaborative effort that provides free legal assistance to low-income individuals affected by disasters. This program combines the resources of the American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division, FEMA, and many local organizations, including volunteer attorneys who are eager to lend a hand.
Survivors may receive help in several ways, such as:
– Understanding renters’ rights
– Assistance with applying for disaster relief
– Guidance on insurance claims
– Help with home repair contracts
– And much more!
It’s worth noting, however, that the DLS program can’t take on every case. For instance, they do not handle cases where a settlement may include legal fees or awards. But don’t despair! They will help connect individuals to other legal resources that can address those specific needs.
Stay Informed and Reach Out
Final Thoughts
In times of disaster, it’s crucial to stay informed and utilize the resources available. Whether you’re dealing with property issues or insurance claims, remember that help is nearby. Make the call, spread the word, and let’s help one another recover from the impacts of Hurricane Helene.
