Free Legal Services Available to Those Affected by Tropical Storm Allison
Release Date: August 15, 2001
Release Number: 1379-89
» More Information on Texas Severe Storms & Flooding
Houston, TX -- Free legal services are available to those affected by Tropical Storm Allison who have disaster-related legal questions and live in the 31 Southeast Texas counties declared a federal disaster.
"Once flood victims' food, clothing and shelter needs are met, they may encounter legal questions concerning lost documents, landlord-tenant disputes, or probate matters," said Lynne Liberato, a Houston attorney and immediate past president of the State Bar.
Those who need legal advice can get help from volunteer lawyers working with the Houston Bar Association, Texas State Bar and other associations of lawyers, said state and federal disaster officials.
To contact a lawyer you may call the State Bar of Texas Emergency Hotline toll-free at 1-800-504-7030. To speak directly with a lawyer you may call on Thursdays between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. Voicemail messages may be left at any time.
Residents who need legal advice should call the legal hotline and not the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Helpline. Those affected by Allison may use the FEMA Helpline to check on the status of their application, update information, and get information about assistance programs.
Volunteer lawyers are working with FEMA and its Disaster Legal Services Program. The Houston Bar Association, Houston Volunteer Lawyers Program, the Texas Young Lawyers Association and the Houston Young Lawyers Association are sponsors of the project.
People affected by Tropical Storm Allison and floods may apply for state and federal assistance by calling FEMA's toll-free registration number at 1-800-462-9029 from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week. Persons with speech or hearing impairments may call 1-800-462-7585 (TTY).
Last Modified: Friday, 17-Oct-2003 14:42:28