Senior Citizen Legal Project (South Middlesex Legal Services)

Summary

South Middlesex Legal Services provides civil legal representation to elders in the areas of public benefits, housing, defense of guardianship, nursing home issues, and some consumer and elder abuse issues. Additional services are provided for low-income elders by private lawyers.

Cost of service to client

The program is offered free of charge but a voluntary, confidential donation of any amount is requested.

Volunteer opportunities

Volunteer attorneys and law students are encouraged to call the South Middlesex Legal Services office to learn about volunteer opportunities or click here for more information.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Does the program prepare wills?

A: In general, the program does not prepare wills. The exception is in the case of low-income elders; those cases are referred to the pro bono panel.

Q: Do I need to go to the Framingham office to see a lawyer?

A: No. The attorney will come to your home or can meet you at the senior center, senior housing or other places that are convenient for you.

Q: What if I do not speak English?

A: South Middlesex Legal Services has staff members who speak Spanish, Portuguese and Russian. They also have a contract with a translation agency so that they can help people in just about any other language.

Other helpful information

South Middlesex Legal Services

The mission of South Middlesex Legal Services is to provide legal advocacy to protect and advance the rights of the poor, elderly, disabled and other disenfranchised people in our service area in obtaining legal, social and economic justice. SMLS will assist client eligible persons in securing access to basic needs and in challenging institutional barriers in order to achieve equal justice for all.

http://www.smlegal.org/cases.html#elder