Free Legal Advice Available For Victims Of Late July Disaster
Release Date: August 24, 2004
Release Number: 1536-013
» More Information on West Virginia Severe Storms, Flooding, and Landslides
CHARLESTON, W. Va. -- Free disaster-related legal advice and referrals are available for anyone affected in the disaster-declared counties of Fayette, Lincoln, Logan and Mingo for the severe storms, flooding and landslides that began July 22.
The American Bar Association's Young Lawyers Division (YLD), which is made up of attorneys who volunteer their time and knowledge, can offer advice on issues involving landlord-tenant problems, disaster related contract matters, insurance, replacement of legal documents, counseling on mortgage foreclosure and a number of other concerns.
The group's toll-free telephone number is 866-989-8227. This is the West Virginia Bar Association. Ask for Tom Tinder, or follow the recorded instructions to access his extension. Office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
A caller's specific complaint, or need, will be forwarded to an attorney with expertise in that area of the law. If researching a legal problem is necessary, the YLD expert will get back to the caller.
No member of the volunteer attorney group will accept fee-generating cases. Their services are authorized only to assist in resolving issues arising from the declared disaster.
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.
Last Modified: Tuesday, 24-Aug-2004 15:04:50