Florida Rural Legal Services

Contact Information

Name: Florida Rural Legal Services
Address: 963 E. Memorial Blvd., Lakeland, FL - 33802
Phone: (863) 688-7376
Fax:

Service Information

Civil Rights, Employment, Family and Real Estate.

Office hours are:
8:30 am to 5:00 pm
Monday through Friday


OFFICE SERVES THE FOLLOWING COUNTIES
    Hardee
    Highlands
    Polk


TYPES OF CASES WE HANDLE
Elder Law Issues
involving health care, nursing home placement, Medicaid and end of life planning issues (wills, powers of attorney and health care surrogates).
Housing
Matters involving tenants rights; home ownership and foreclosure defense, sub-standard housing; lockouts and utility shut-offs by landlords; foreclosure; housing discrimination; farm worker housing; and eviction defense.
Labor and Employment
Issues including minimum wage and overtime claims; working conditions; retaliation; sexual harassment; and employees rights.
Education
Issues including securing students rights; special education placement problems; suspensions and expulsions.
Civil Rights
Matters pertaining to rights for minorities, persons with disabilities and other constitutionally protected persons.
Family Security/Public Benefits
Includes unemployment insurance benefits; bankruptcy, TANF (welfare) benefits; food stamps; Social Security, SSI, Medicaid, Medicare and health related issues such as access to medical services.
Family Law Services
Divorces are provided in the following counties under very specific conditions. Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee and St. Lucie Counties. You must be a resident of one of the 4 counties above and not be living with your spouse. If there are children involved you must be the custodial parent.
Charlotte County...you must be a resident of Charlotte County. Divorces are provided only in matters involving children and/or domestic violence.
For residents of Desoto, Glades and Hendry Counties please contact the Ft. Myers Office.



Hours:
  • Monday 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Tuesday 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Wednesday 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Thursday 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Friday 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Saturday closed
  • Sunday closed

Mission Statement: OUR MISSION IS TO EMPOWER LOW INCOME INDIVIDUALS, GROUPS, AND COMMUNITIES BY PROVIDING THEM WITH ACCESS TO JUSTICE THROUGH LEGAL ADVICE, REPRESENTATION, AND ADVOCACY.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is legal aid?

Legal aid is free or low-cost legal advice and assistance given to those who cannot afford the services of an attorney.

2. Who is eligible for legal aid?

The eligibility requirements for legal aid vary depending on the country or state, but generally, those who have limited income and cannot afford the services of a lawyer are eligible for legal aid.

3. How can I apply for legal aid?

To apply for legal aid, you can either visit your local legal aid office or access their website to fill out an application form. You will be required to provide information on your income and assets, as well as the legal issue you need assistance with.

4. What types of legal issues are covered by legal aid?

Legal aid covers a wide range of legal issues, including family law, criminal law, employment law, housing, consumer law, and immigration law.

5. Can I choose my lawyer with legal aid?

In some cases, you may be able to choose your lawyer with legal aid. However, in most cases, the lawyer assigned to you by legal aid will depend on their availability and expertise in the area of law your case involves.

6. How much does legal aid cost?

Legal aid is either free or offered at a reduced cost, depending on your income and assets.

7. What documents do I need to provide for legal aid?

When applying for legal aid, you will need to provide proof of your income and assets, such as bank statements, tax returns, and proof of benefits.

8. Is legal aid available for international cases?

Legal aid is only available for cases that fall within the jurisdiction of the country or state offering legal aid services.

9. Can I appeal a decision made by legal aid?

If you are not satisfied with the decision made by legal aid, you may have the right to appeal the decision. This may involve filling out an appeal form or attending a hearing.

10. How can I find a legal aid office in my area?

You can find a legal aid office in your area by searching online or contacting your local bar association.