What Should I Expect When I Call the HelpLine?
The first person you will talk to is an intake specialist. Their job is
to help us determine if you qualify for services. The first thing they
will ask you is for basic information such as your name, address, phone
number, and income. The intake specialist needs to get this information
first, before you can tell them about your legal problem.
MLSA will not share your information unless you want us to.
Next, the intake specialist will ask you questions about your income,
what possessions you own (cars, houses, land), and other personal
information. The intake specialist needs this information to determine
if you qualify for help.
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If you do not have a phone or it is an emergency you can go the
nearest MLSA office.
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If you don't speak English, ask for a translator right away. We will
provide one free of charge.
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If you do not qualify for help, we will tell you right away.
If you do qualify for MLSA help:
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We will make an appointment for you to speak with an MLSA advocate by
telephone.
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If possible, we will tell you how to solve your problem yourself. Many
problems can be handled with just a phone call or two and some advice.
We may also give you some written information about your legal rights.
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We may ask you to send us more information about your case. We will
review it before we call you again for more advice.
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We may need to do so some legal research before we can advise you.
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An MLSA attorney may represent you or we may refer you to a pro bono
attorney.
Here are a few tips for you while you're on the phone:
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Be sure you understand what services we will give you.
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Ask questions and take notes.
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Write down the name of the person helping you.
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If you need more help, call us again.
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