What is the Senior Law Project?

The Senior Law Project (SLP) is a volunteer lawyer program that is operated by Legal Aid Services of Oregon. The SLP has provided legal assistance to seniors since 1978.  Lawyers initially meet with clients for 30-minute appointments at nine senior centers in Multnomah County.

Can a Senior Law Project Lawyer Help Me?

SLP attorneys help clients with civil legal issues. Many times clients do not realize that their problem is a legal issue and that a lawyer could help.  While many of the SLP clients have issues such as estate planning, consumer problems, and real property disputes, a lawyer could also assist with the following types of questions:

•   At what age should I begin drawing my Social Security?

•   How much money do I need to take out of my IRA and at what ages?

•   What should I do if my children start talking about conservatorship or guardianship?

•   What is a "Power of Attorney" and can I take it back once I have given it to someone?

•   How do I let my doctor know about my end of life decisions?

Who Can Meet With a Volunteer Lawyer?

You qualify for a free 30-minute appointment with a volunteer attorney if you are:

•   60 years or older, or married to someone 60 years or older;

•   A resident of Multnomah County or have a legal issue in Multnomah County; and

•   A U.S. citizen or have legal immigration status.

Free interpreters are available for non-English speaking clients.

You do not have to meet income or asset standards for the free 30-minute appointment.

What Does a 30-Minute Appointment Cost?

There is no charge for a 30-minute appointment with a volunteer attorney. All of the lawyers are donating their time and experience to the project.  However, you are responsible for all out-of-pocket costs such as photocopying costs, filing fees if a lawsuit is filed or long-distance telephone calls.

What If I Need Continuing Legal Help?

You will be asked information about your finances at the time of your appointment.  The volunteer attorneys have agreed to provide continuing free services to clients who meet the Legal Aid financial standards, have a meritorious case, and who do not have a fee-generating case.  If you are not eligible for continuing free services and you would like to hire the volunteer attorney, you can speak with the attorney about his/her fees. If you would like to find another attorney, you can call the Oregon State Bar Lawyer Referral Line at 1-800-452-7636.

Can Legal Aid Take My Case?

Legal Aid Services of Oregon is a nonprofit law firm that provides legal services to low-income people and other special populations. There is no charge for our legal services; however, most clients must meet our financial standards.

The Senior Law Project has staff attorneys who specialize in public benefits. Clients who have problems with nursing homes, adult foster homes, Medicaid, Medicare, Social Security appeals, and guardianships should call Legal Aid before calling a senior center. The phone number is: (503) 224-4086.

The Senior Law Project may be able to arrange for an attorney to visit you in your home if you are physically unable to go to a senior center. To request a home visit call (503) 224-4086.

How Do I Make an Appointment?

Please see the "Legal Clinic Locations" link in the navigation bar on the left.