Veterans Legal Project

The free legal services offered by Legal Aid are critical to the safety, health and economic stability of the clients we serve.

Legal Aid recognizes that Veterans, particularly those who are elderly, disabled, or suffering from service related mental illnesses, are among the most vulnerable and at risk populations in Collier County.

To meet the needs of eligible low-income Veterans in need, Legal Aid operates a comprehensive Veterans Legal Project.

Legal services provided would include advice and counsel, limited representation, full representation in litigation/court, and negotiations with third parties to resolve claims or disputes.

The Project Attorney is Veterans Administration (VA) Certified, and can represent Veterans before the VA on matters includingm but not limited to:

• Securing VA benefits
• Pursuing Adjustments in Discharge Status

Examples of the kinds of issues the Project attorney would handle for Veterans include, but are not limited to:

• Obtaining VA benefits and medical treatment where previously and improperly denied
• Defending against eviction or foreclosure and obtaining or retaining affordable housing
• Obtaining other public benefits for income or medical care (including social security, SSI, SSD, Medicare, Medicaid, Unemployment, TANF/food stamps)
• Maintaining income by securing unpaid wages
• Defending against garnishment or repossession
• Preventing employment discrimination based upon disability;
• Defending against claims and collection actions by creditors;
• Obtaining restoration of Driver’s License and resolving civil fines
• Reducing legal barriers to employment, education or housing