15-year-old Sarah’s dentist told her she needed braces. Although she had a health plan that was part of a Managed Care Organization (MCO), her orthodontic claims were denied over and over. They claimed braces are not “medically necessary.” Sarah’s mother Kathy reached out to Lone Star Legal Aid (LSLA) for assistance with an appeal. Elizabeth Green, in our Public Benefits […]
What is Title IX? Title IX is a federal civil rights law in the United States that prohibits discrimination based on sex in any educational institution that receives federal funding. Title IX protects individuals from gender-based discrimination in education, including sexual harassment, sexual violence, and sexual assault. Title IX requires educational institutions to address reports of sexual violence and support […]
HOUSTON, TX – Lone Star Legal Aid, alongside dozens of other volunteers and local nonprofit organizations, were recipients of volunteer appreciation awards Friday morning at City Hall. We were presented with the Mayor’s Community Engagement Award. We received the award because of our involvement with the City of Houston Department of Neighborhoods (DON) and Neighborhood Recovery Community Development Corporation’s (NRCDC) […]
Not all legal problems are solved in the courtroom. Lawyers can help you with legal advice only or brief service. This is like an interview where you talk to the lawyer about your problem, and they give you advice. This can help you decide what to do next about your legal problem. In some cases, they may provide a brief […]
A whole week in April each year is dedicated to recognizing crime victims, their rights, and their stories. It is an annual campaign that focuses on the victims’ rights movement, federal legislation, court decisions, government actions, and programs working with crime victims. The week-long campaign raises awareness and helps victims rebuild their lives. National Crime Victims’ Rights Week is a […]
Legal aid is a valuable resource for individuals who cannot afford legal representation. Yet there are many misconceptions about legal aid that keep people from asking for help. In this article, we will debunk five common myths about legal aid. MYTH: Legal aid is only available for criminal cases. FACT: While legal aid is often associated with criminal defense, it […]
Guide to Legal Rights Legal rights are the entitlements and protections established by law, and they exist to ensure that individuals are treated fairly and justly in various legal contexts. Understanding legal rights is crucial for anyone who wants to protect themselves and their interests, and this is especially true for low-income individuals who may face additional challenges to accessing […]
Domestic violence can have serious consequences for survivors. It is important for anyone experiencing or witnessing domestic violence to seek support. In this article, we will explore the legal and non-legal options available for survivors of domestic violence. Legal Options for Survivors of Domestic Violence Civil legal aid can be a helpful resource for survivors of domestic violence by providing […]
Bailey met her boyfriend Danny through her friendship with his sister. They dated on and off for several years, often separating due to Danny’s emotional and physical abuse towards Bailey. When Danny was arrested for robbery, Bailey decided that was the final straw, and broke up with him. She had been working hard towards her career as a licensed security […]
Based on current COVID-19 trends, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is planning for the federal Public Health Emergency (PHE) for COVID-19, declared under Section 319 of the Public Health Service (PHS) Act, to expire on May 11, 2023. Earlier this month, there was an announcement ending the additional funding for SNAP recipients due to the PHE ending, […]
Since shelters were opened for survivors of the Pasadena tornado, the American Red Cross and its partners have served 407 households by providing: -261 overnight stays for more than 100 residents in 3 emergency shelters; -3016 meals and snacks; and -265 relief items including comfort kits and other supplies. The American Red Cross was at the Beamer Place apartment office, […]
Mariah married her military husband Sean and raised two children together, and one from Sean’s previous relationship beginning when the child was two years-old. This child is now a teenager, and recently, he came out as transgender and said he wanted to go by Calvin. Mariah was working hard to provide Calvin with all the support he needed while transitioning. […]
At 12 years old, Mara was diagnosed with a rare disease, Takayasu Arteritis, which left her unable to walk. She was told she would be disabled for the rest of her life. At 20 years-old, the Social Security Administration (SSA) determined her diagnosed conditions were not severe enough to warrant a finding of disability, and Mara was denied Social Security […]
Sandy is a 74 year-old widow in East Texas who struggled to maintain her household after her husband passed away. Although she was with her common law husband for 29 years, and they had children together, they never formally married. “I was never married before him, and I have never even dated anyone else,” said Sandy. Sandy applied for legal […]
A lawyer’s job requires them to have a specific skill set that provides benefits beyond the courtroom. Such skilled legal services are often expensive and beyond the reach of many potential clients. When a lawyer provides their services without charge, this is called Pro Bono. Pro Bono volunteer work is especially encouraged for low-income clients and legal aid nonprofits, as […]
Overview Most Affordable Care Act Coverage Plans will stay the same, leading into each new year. However, new rules implemented this past year will affect coverage in 2023, reducing your cost. If you haven’t been able to find a plan, or this is your first-time shopping for an affordable health plan, we will go over what you need to know […]
In civil matters, all Texans have the right to represent themselves in court. This is called “Pro Se.” Self-representation may be simpler with certain civil legal issues than others, so it is important to do your research. Some people may choose to represent themselves because they cannot afford to hire an attorney. Lone Star Legal Aid, and other legal aid […]
Annually in October, Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) is recognized to raise awareness of how organizations can come together to educate our communities and collectively advocate to end domestic violence. Each year, Lone Star Legal Aid (LSLA) takes the time to reflect on where we have been in advocating for domestic violence and representing victims, and where we are going […]
Lone Star Legal Aid is one of three legal aid providers in Texas, helping low-income Texans face civil legal issues that create additional barriers to their well-being. We have many units dedicated to different client issues. Here is an exhaustive list of the free services we offer to clients who qualify. If you have been affected by unfair selling […]
With the approval of the student loan forgiveness plan, over 8 million borrowers qualify for debt relief. However, the details on how to qualify or apply for relief may be difficult to keep track of, making many parties vulnerable to scams disguised as “assistance.” You do not need to do anything or pay anyone upfront to apply for the new […]
