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- Share your voice! LASP Needs Assessment survey
- Neighborhood Assistance Project: Thank you to Hatboro Federal Savings for your $100,000 donation!
- Bucks County Bar Foundation honors Barbara Kaner
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Rhonda Sherrod named Bristol Managing Attorney
- In Memoriam: Joseph P. Lynch
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Delco Gives May 8-9 | 4-county Softball Tourney: Battle of the 'Burbs May 18 | Open House in Norristown May 29
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Legal Aid Golf Classic June 24
- Global Volunteer Month & Nat'l Crime Victims Rights Week
- LASP scrapbook | Upcoming outreach | New staff | Jobs
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Take the survey: What are the civil legal needs in southeastern PA? | |
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Legal Aid of Southeastern PA is seeking different points of view on civil legal needs in Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery counties.
We invite input from community members, including those who have sought help from LASP or thought about doing so, as well as other community members.
We also need to hear the perspective of advocates, including attorneys, legal professionals and social service providers.
Your input will help increase our ability to meet the civil legal needs of southeastern Pennsylvania's lower income residents.
Please help! Complete the survey to assist in improving civil legal services in southeastern Pennsylvania.
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Neighborhood Assistance Program | |
THANK YOU to Hatboro Federal Savings for your $100,000 donation to LASP for impactful project in Lower Bucks County! | |
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HATBORO - Thank you to Hatboro Federal Savings for your generous donation of $100,000 to LASP through the Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP)! Through the funding, LASP will provide legal representation to Lower Bucks County residents.
LASP's legal representation will help community residents and veterans with low to moderate incomes resolve serious legal problems impacting their housing and financial security. LASP will also conduct community outreach and legal clinics with a focus on collaboration with veterans organizations.
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"We are so grateful for the Hatboro Federal Savings donation," said Rhonda Sherrod, Bristol Managing Attorney. "The donation assists LASP in providing free legal representation to Lower Bucks County residents who, for lack of resources, all too often face civil legal proceedings without a legal advocate to fight for their rights. This support is a powerful example of a local business giving back to the community."
Pictured at Hatboro Federal Savings in Hatboro on April 22 (front row, from left): Shawn Boehringer, LASP Executive Director; Thomas B. Carpenter, Vice President & Compliance Officer for Hatboro Federal Savings; and Michael Shelton, LASP Board member and Legal Solution LLC owner and principal. Back row: Rhonda Sherrod, LASP Bristol Managing Attorney; and Ann Tydeman-Solomon, Development Director.
In November 2023, the PA Dept. of Community and Economic Development (DCED) announced $36 million for 261 projects across the Commonwealth, including LASP’s project in Bucks County. NAP provides tax credits to businesses that contribute to nonprofit organizations’ efforts to revitalize communities. Through the program, businesses can receive tax credits of up to 80% on the contributions they make to a qualifying community project. More information on 2023-24 grants: https://bit.ly/NAP-11-20-2023.
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Bucks County Bar Foundation 20th Anniversary Gala | |
Barbara Kaner honored with BCBF Justice Award | |
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DOYLESTOWN - The Bucks County Bar Foundation honored Barbara Kaner with a 2024 Justice Award as part of its 20th Anniversary Gala celebration on Thursday, April 18.
The Justice Awards recognize a person, entity or organization who has advanced the ideals of social justice in the community at large. Recipients have encouraged a greater respect for the law and foster a greater respect for the rule of law.
Barbara holds a B.A. in Government and Law from Lafayette College and J.D. from Widener University School of Law. While there, she was a member of the Moot Court Honor Society. She served as an Assistant District Attorney in Northampton County from 1985-87. From 1988-1999, Barbara was an attorney in the Bucks County District Attorney's office. After time as a stay-at-home mom, Barbara joined LASP in 2002 as Staff Attorney, representing plaintiffs in Protection From Abuse (PFA) matters. Barbara finds the work to be extremely rewarding.
The Writs article announcing the awards notes, "Attorney Kaner's tireless day-to-day actions and examples have made 'Equal Justice Under the Law' a reality for victims of domestic violence in Bucks County... Barbara is truly passionate about her work, and never seeks attention or recognition for her accomplishments. Her coworkers and colleagues all think so highly of her."
It also notes, "Those of us who have regularly volunteered for pro bono PFA work for over the past 20 years know Barbara and her dedication as well. When you find Barbara is counsel for the other party to a Protection from Abuse matter, you know the other party is receiving competent, experienced and very capable representation. No one has advanced the ideals of social justice in the community at large as Barbara has, and no one encourages a greater respect for the law and the rule of law."
Further reading:
Writs article: https://bit.ly/Writs-spring-2024 (page 26) | LASP News: lasp.org/news
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Rhonda Sherrod named Bristol Managing Attorney | |
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BRISTOL- Rhonda Sherrod was named LASP's Bristol Managing Attorney in April, succeeding Joshua Z. Goldblum. She joined LASP as Staff Attorney in January 2007 in the Bristol Office, handling cases involving public benefits and dependency. In 2011, she moved to the Doylestown Office, focusing on dependency and occasionally Protection from Abuse (PFA) cases. In 2016, Rhonda shifted her practice to elder law, representing people in Adult Protective Services hearings, guardianship hearings, and drafting powers of attorney, advance directives and simple wills. She represents clients age 60+ in landlord-tenant matters, consumer credit card lawsuits, Social Security, and Unemployment Compensation and benefit issues, including SNAP and long-term care Medicaid. She provides educational outreach to senior centers and community organizations.
From 2003-06, Rhonda served as Assistant Public Defender for the Defender Association of Philadelphia. She holds a J.D. from Tulane Law School and a B.A. in English, magna cum laude, from Howard University. During law school, she interned at the Tulane Law School Juvenile Law Clinic in New Orleans, Juvenile Justice Project of Louisiana, Community Legal Services of Philadelphia, and was a Law Clerk for Project Save. She interned at the Defender Association Capital Habeas Unit the year earning her law degree.
She joined the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament (SBS) in 1993 and remained with the sisters until 2010. The SBS is a Roman Catholic religious congregation who, among other good works, founded Xavier University of Louisiana. During her time as a Sister of the Blessed Sacrament, she served on the Board of Trustees of Xavier University of Louisiana from 2003-2008.
She was a Volunteer Child Advocate for CASA New Orleans, a crisis line volunteer and shift supervisor for the Suicide Prevention Center of Los Angeles and a Paraprofessional Counselor for the Southern California Mental Health Center. Rhonda can be reached at rsherrod@lasp.org or 484-416-4286.
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Angela Dykie, Executive Administrative Assistant | |
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NORRISTOWN – Angela Dykie joined LASP April 9 as Executive Administrative Assistant based in Norristown. She provides focused support for LASP's executive leadership team, including Shawn Boehringer, Executive Director; Carolyn Johnson, Chief Counsel; and Phillip Hammond, Director of Operations. She most recently served as Senior Executive Assistant for Penske at the Green Hills Campus Headquarters in Reading for over 10 years.
Angie has extensive experience supporting C-suite executive leadership in global corporate environments. Among myriad responsibilities, she handled corporate philanthropic efforts including consecutive record-breaking United Way/Affiliate campaigns, event management, travel to identify event locations, and logistics. As Executive Assistant to the CEO and chief operating officer at TW Metals in Exton, she supported the successful turnaround and sale of the global specialty metals supplier during the tumultuous market effects of 9/11. She also worked as a Formulator in the metals industry at TIMET in Morgantown, where she and a team formulated titanium alloy blends based upon multiple variables, including raw material chemistry and industry application. TIMET was the world’s largest titanium producer. From 2007-12, she and her husband launched and ran Dykrete, a small specialty concrete business in Pottstown with the tagline, "Makes Concrete Look Like Marble." Angie managed all aspects of the business, from taxes and payroll to web development and marketing.
She earned a metallurgy certificate from ASM International / Materials Engineering Institute in Metals Park, Ohio in addition to college credits at Ursinus College and Montgomery County Community College. She holds a diploma from Boyertown Area Senior High School and toured Spain with her Spanish IV class. Angie states that she is “passionate about LASP’s mission and being part of this amazing team who helps to give a voice to the voiceless.” She can be reached at 484-209-0854 or adykie@lasp.org.
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Joseph P. Lynch, longtime LASP Board of Directors member | |
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LASP is saddened to learn of the death of Joseph P. Lynch, who served on the Board of Directors from its founding in 2001 to present and supported the organization in many important ways. Joe, 86, was born on July 13, 1937 in Conshohocken, passed away on March 31, 2024 in Norristown. He was admitted to the Montgomery Bar Association in 1965 and received the MBA's Henry Stuckert Miller Community Service Award in 2014, presented to a lawyer who demonstrates unusual devotion to community service in addition to his or her service to the legal community, who does the hard work "in the trenches." Joe served as President of Montgomery County Legal Aid Service (MCLAS) and on the Legal Aid of Southeastern PA Board of Directors since its inception in 2001. He was a Founder Honoree at LASPs 20th anniversary Fête for Justice in May 2022.
Joe passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family. He was the loving husband of Patricia Horstmann Lynch for over 56 years. Joe was born in Conshohocken and graduated from Norwood Academy, St. Joseph’s Prep, Villanova University, and Cleveland-Marshall Law School. He served his country honorably in the U.S. Army Reserves. He loved sailing, skiing, tennis, and working in the yard with his beloved Gravely tractors. He enjoyed time with family and friends, and giving of his time to help others, especially through Legal Aid. He is survived by his wife, Patricia, children, Patricia Quinet (Jonathan), Elizabeth Lynch, Joseph Lynch (Diane), James Lynch, and Ann Munson (Nicholas), and grandchildren Alice, Ignatius, Tressa, Leah, and Rachel, and many nieces, nephews, family, friends, and colleagues. Joe was predeceased by his brothers, James and Peter, and granddaughter, Gwen Munson.
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Join us for Delco Gives, in support of local legal aid: May 8-9
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On May 8 & 9, LASP will participate in the 24-hour local fundraising event, Delco Gives. Hosted by the Foundation for Delaware County, Delco Gives is a county-wide effort to raise awareness and funds for organizations like LASP that provide important services to Delco residents.
Big thanks to Penn Cafe, Chester city coffee and sandwich shop, for being our first Delco Gives donor and fueling legal aid staff! Fiona Hew-Wing (center), Penn Cafe Manager, is pictured with Richard Prebil, Veterans Advocacy Project Supervising Attorney, and Michelle Terry, Chester City Managing Attorney.
In 2023, in Delaware County, LASP:
- Handled 2,703 cases that benefited 5,654 adults and children.
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Preserved or improved housing for 274 adults and children.
- Obtained over $3 million in benefits for Veterans.
- Had 257 court appearances representing survivors of domestic abuse.
- Cleared 56 records through expungement, sealing, and pardons.
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We all know the difference having an attorney makes. It is paramount that we close the legal justice gap and help extend legal aid in any way we can.
Here’s how you can help:
1.) Make a donation! On May 8-9, from 7 p.m.-7 p.m. visit bit.ly/delco-gives-lasp and donate to LASP.
Can’t wait to donate? Visit bit.ly/delco-gives and have your early donation still count towards the Delco Gives event.
2.) Spread the word! Text a friend, forward this email, share the news on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter/X with the hashtags #DelcoGives and #LegalAidHelps!
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Join us May 9 in Rose Tree Park!
Additionally on Thursday, May 9 from 4:30-8 p.m. LASP will have a table at Rose Tree Park in Media for the Delco Gives grand finale. Join us at 1671 N. Providence Road, Media, PA 19063 to celebrate and support local causes and enjoy food, music, and even an appearance from the Philly Phanatic!
We appreciate your commitment and support for equal access to legal justice.
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Players invited! LASP's Inaugural Battle of the 'Burbs softball tourney Saturday, May 18! | |
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JEFFERSONVILLE - Players are invited! The inaugural Battle of the ’Burbs softball tournament will be Saturday, May 18, 2024. We look forward to a friendly competition & presenting a new trophy! (Note: The October 2023 event was rained out.)
The tournament is at Padden Park, 2101 Oakland Drive, Jeffersonville, PA 19403, in West Norriton Township. GPS may say Norristown or Trooper.
It will feature the Young Lawyers Divisions of the Bucks County Bar Association, Chester County Bar Association, Delaware County Bar Association & Montgomery Bar Association. (You do not have to be a young lawyer to play!)
Thank you to LexisNexis, the Bucks County Bar Association Young Lawyers Division, and the Pennsylvania Bar Association for your sponsorships! Learn more, sign up to play, and/or sponsor: lasp.org/softball. Questions? Contact Megan Reinprecht at mreinprecht@lasp.org.
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LASP Open House! Join us May 29 at 522/524 Swede Street in Norristown to celebrate local legal aid! | |
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NORRISTOWN - You're invited! Join us for an Open House on Wednesday, May 29 from 3-6 p.m. at 522/524 Swede Street, Norristown, PA 19401.
U.S. Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon, Co-Chair of the Congressional Access to Legal Aid Caucus, will share brief remarks, along with other local leaders.
Light refreshments will be served. An outdoor tent will be in our parking lot. Tour LASP's newly relocated administrative office. Stay tuned to lasp.org/events & social media for more details!
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2024 Legal Aid Golf Classic
Presented by the Montgomery Bar Foundation
Monday, June 24
Registration is open! The Montgomery Bar Foundation is hosting the premier summer golf event and community social at Green Valley Country Club in Lafayette Hill, with lunch and registration beginning at 11:30 a.m., and a shotgun start at 1 p.m. A great day of golf and on-course attractions will be followed by a special cocktail reception at 5:15 p.m., featuring golf awards, raffle prizes, and the presentation of the Montgomery Bar Foundation's prestigious community service awards.
There are several ways to support LASP at this event: golf, attend the cocktail awards reception, purchase and/or sell raffle tickets, or become an event sponsor. As always, proceeds will be matched dollar-for-dollar by the Montgomery Bar Association and will benefit LASP’s impactful work!
- For questions about golf or problems with registration, please contact Megan Ware at megan@montgomerybar.org or 610-994-3666.
- For questions about sponsorship, please contact Jim Mathias at 610-994-3660 or 610-213-2669.
- For more details, please see the MBA event page: https://bit.ly/golf-6-24-2024.
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Pro bono news & opportunities | |
April was Global Volunteer Month! | |
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LASP extends a huge THANK YOU to our pro bono volunteers!
Throughout the year, YOU directly expand access to justice in Bucks, Chester, Delaware & Montgomery counties.
Volunteerism fosters connection and breaks down barriers, while creating a better justice system for all.
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Senior Wills Clinic in Brookhaven | |
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BROOKHAVEN - A Senior Wills Clinic hosted by Rep. Leanne Krueger, Sen. John Kane and LASP on April 25 helped 12 seniors with 22 documents, including simple wills, durable Powers of Attorney and healthcare directives.
Pro bono volunteers included Dana Breslin, Marie Fendt, Christine Flynn, Rich Lutz; Brooke Newborn, Pat Rizzo and Ashwini Udgaonkar. Tiara Dowling, J.D., and Penn Law students Nick Caponi, and Kia Del Solar joined them.
Pictured at Brookhaven Municipal Center (from left): Erika Felpel, LASP Pro Bono Paralegal; Florence Moyer of Rep. Krueger's office; Cassidy Heiserman, LASP Staff Attorney & Delaware County Pro Bono Coordinator; Rita Dawson, LASP Paralegal and Delco Pro Bono Assistant Coordinator; Jennifer Kauffeld of Rep. Krueger's office; Richard Prebil, LASP Veterans Advocacy Project Supervising Attorney; and Erika Becker, LASP Pro Bono Director.
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Montgomery County Name Change Clinic | |
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The semi-annual Montgomery County Name Change Clinic, hosted by the Prothonotary's Office and the Montgomery Bar Association, was held April 24.
Michelle R. Dempsky (second column, second row), Staff Attorney; Denise Vicario (2nd column, third row), Montgomery Bar Association Executive Director; and Prothonotary Noah Marlier (first column, third row) are pictured with some of the pro bono volunteers.
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Bucks County pro bono opportunities | |
Volunteers needed Thursdays at 1 p.m. for eviction prevention program in Lower Makefield Township courtroom | |
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Pro bono attorneys are invited for an eviction prevention pilot project providing legal representation to tenants who do not have an attorney and who volunteer to participate, while also connecting them with social services.
Research shows that tenants with legal representation have significantly better outcomes in landlord-tenant court. Evictions can have devastating short- and long-term impacts on renters, including homelessness and negative health outcomes, and can severely limit future housing opportunities.
The hearings are every Thursday at 1 p.m. at Judge Kronnagel’s MDJ court, located at 31 E. Cleveland Ave., Morrisville, PA 19067. Volunteer for any Thursday. The project is a collaboration between the Bucks County Bar Association Pro Bono Committee, LASP, and the Bucks County Opportunity Council (BCOC), with support from the Bucks County Dept. of Housing & Community Development.
To learn more or sign up, contact Erika Felpel at efelpel@lasp.org. | Website article
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Represent plaintiffs at PFA hearings any Wednesday in Doylestown | |
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DOYLESTOWN - Represent plaintiffs at Protection from Abuse (PFA) hearings, held every Wednesday. CHOOSE ANY DAY(S)! Volunteers for plaintiffs are especially needed on Wednesday, May 15!
LIMITED SCOPE pro bono opportunity, with no expectation of continued representation beyond the day of volunteer service. New volunteers can observe PFA Day and learn from staff and current volunteers before committing to provide representation. You do NOT need to be a family law attorney to participate. Hearings are at Bucks County Justice Center, Doylestown.
To volunteer for plaintiffs, contact Durene McCarty at dmccarty@lasp.org or 215-398-6757. To volunteer for defense, contact the Bucks County Bar Association.
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Chester County: Volunteer attorneys, paralegals, law students & community members needed for 2024 mobile home project | |
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The 2024 Chester County Mobile Home Tax Reassessment Project began in February and continue through summer. Volunteer opportunities are available for attorneys, paralegals, law students and community members.
Multiple opportunities are available, and you do NOT need to volunteer for all months of the project. To learn more about the project and its impact, scroll down or visit our webpage.
To learn more or to volunteer, please contact Brian Doyle, Staff Attorney and Chester County Pro Bono Coordinator, at 484-416-4259 x5210 or bdoyle@lasp.org.
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Delaware County pro bono opportunities | |
Ongoing: Pro bono attorneys needed for multiple practice areas | |
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Make a difference in Delaware County! Pro bono opportunities include no fault, no asset divorces; simple wills, powers of attorney, healthcare directives for seniors; custody (limited scope available); and other civil legal issues low-income individuals face. Your volunteer service improves access to justice.
Divorce
Pro bono volunteers are needed to represent clients in no fault, no asset divorces. The divorces are either by consent or one-year separation and do not involve equitable distribution, custody, support, or fault grounds. Typically, a pro bono volunteer will not need to appear at a court proceeding in these cases.
Custody
Pro bono volunteers are needed to represent clients in custody cases in a limited scope, pursuant to the PA Rules of Professional Conduct and Delaware County’s limited entry of appearance rule. Delaware County's Rule 1012 permits attorneys to withdraw by praecipe after representation at the number of custody conferences agreed to in advance.
To learn more or sign up, please contact Cassidy Heiserman, Staff Attorney & Delaware County Pro Bono Coordinator, at cheiserman@lasp.org. Or register at lasp.org/volunteer-signup.
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Montgomery County pro bono opportunities | |
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Divorce cases | Custody cases | Lansdale outreach
More details about each opportunity are at lasp.org/pro-bono, or contact Melina Dixon, Staff Attorney and Montgomery County Pro Bono Coordinator, at 484-275-0463 or mdixon@lasp.org.
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Eviction prevention in 8 courts across the county as part of EPIC | |
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The Eviction Prevention & Intervention Coalition (EPIC) started in 2017 in one courtroom in Norristown and is currently in eight Magisterial District Justice courtrooms across Montgomery County: three in Norristown, two in Pottstown, and one each in East Norriton, Jenkintown and Lansdale.
Volunteer attorneys appear in court to help those facing eviction. You can specify your courtroom location/day of service, etc. To learn more or volunteer for EPIC, please contact Michelle Dempsky, LASP Staff Attorney & lead attorney with EPIC, at mdempsky@lasp.org.
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Stay tuned:
pro bono
CLEs!
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LASP in the news & in print | |
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A Partnership to Break the Cycle of Veteran Homelessness
by Richard A.J. Prebil, LASP Veterans Advocacy Project Supervising Attorney, & Nicole McCoy, Chief Legal Services Officer, Veterans Multi-Service Center | Management Information Exchange (MIE) Journal | Winter 2023-24 (published 3/2024)
Together, LASP & VMC have stabilized housing and increased income for unhoused veterans in our community, creating a holistic, wraparound safety net of services.
This partnership works, and can be duplicated!
Our hope is to inspire more legal aid and social service agencies ~ organizations already aligned in mission & vision ~ to collaborate to serve veterans.
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'We Are All Climate Lawyers Now:' How You Can Navigate the New and Inevitable World of Disaster Legal Services at Your Organization
by Charles Burrows, LASP Staff Attorney, & Josh Gaul, Managing Attorney, Iowa Legal Aid | Management Information Exchange (MIE) Journal | Winter 2023-24 (published 3/2024)
There’s greater demand for disaster legal services in the face of increasing numbers of natural disasters exacerbated by climate change.
LASP continues to help survivors and work with community partners in response to Hurricane Ida.
Legal Services Corporation connected LASP and Iowa Legal Aid to help develop LASP’s disaster legal aid program.
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National Crime Victims Rights Week | |
LASP's VOCA team works to give clients voices in the legal system | |
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National Crime Victims’ Rights Week was April 21-27, 2024. Crime & victimization know no bounds. Anyone can be a victim. Everyone deserves help & to be heard.
LASP's VOCA team serves Bucks, Chester, Delaware & Montgomery counties. Advocates give our clients voices in the legal system.
We empower victims to feel comfortable enough to share their stories and get the legal help they desperately need.
LASP Delco VOCA snapshot ~ 2023
- 872.9 hours of casework spent on domestic violence issues
- 257 court appearances
- 213 cases handled for 180 unique clients
LASP 4-county VOCA snapshot ~ 2022-23
- LASP helped clients obtain 689 Protection from Abuse (PFA) orders, increasing the safety for more than 1,600 adults & children in Bucks, Chester, Delaware & Montgomery counties.
A SHORT HISTORY OF VOCA
2024 marks the 40th anniversary of the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA). This act was passed by Congress and signed into law on Oct. 12, 1984. VOCA established the Crime Victims Fund (CVF), a Federal Victim Notification System, discretionary grants for victim service organizations, victim assistance positions in the Dept. of Justice, financial support for the Children’s Justice Act Program, and assistance and compensation for victims and survivors of terrorism.
In 1988, the law was amended establishing the federal Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) as the administrator of the CVF. The CVF consists of deposits from federal criminal fines, forfeited bail bonds, penalties, and special assessments collected by U.S. Attorneys' Offices, federal courts, and the Federal Bureau of Prisons. The VOCA Fix to Sustain the Crime Victims Fund Act was signed into law in 2021, mandating that monetary penalties from federal deferred and non-prosecution agreements also be added to the CVF rather than the General Treasury. Crucially, the CVF does not use taxpayer dollars. Since 2007, more than $31 billion has been deposited into the CVF.
Because of VOCA and CVF, OVC is able to support thousands of programs annually with millions of dollars invested in services provided directly to crime victims who have suffered physical, emotional, and financial harm from victimization.
LASP first received VOCA funding Oct. 1, 2016. Our VOCA team helps people obtain Protection from Abuse (PFA) orders and address other legal issues related to domestic violence in Bucks, Chester, Delaware & Montgomery counties. lasp.org/domestic-violence
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Chester County Mobile Home Tax Reassessment Project | |
LASP & United Way of Chester County team up to help Chester County mobile home owners with free tax reassessments | |
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The 2024 Chester County Mobile Home Tax Reassessment Project is under way! Deadline to apply: Friday, July 12, 2024.
A collaboration between LASP and United Way of Chester County, this impactful project provides free tax reassessments, including preparation and filing of the tax appeal and representation at the hearing. Since 2019, this project has assisted in 1,014 successful appeals and saved each mobile home owner an average of $800+ on their annual taxes.
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Protecting the Promise: Legal Services Corporation | |
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WASHINGTON, D.C. - Commemorating 50 years of work to close the justice gap and expand access to civil legal aid, Legal Services Corporation celebrated its past, present and future in Washington, D.C. on April 8-9. With the theme "Protecting the Promise," LSC featured an all-star lineup of speakers who shared stories of the impact of civil legal aid, including Hillary Clinton, John Grisham, Chief Justice John Roberts, Attorney General Merrick Garland, U.S. Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon, former Merck CEO Ken Frazier, and more.
LASP was represented by Michelle R. Terry (at left), Chester City Managing Attorney; Shawn Boehringer, Executive Director; and Carolyn Johnson, Chief Counsel.
LASP Facebook post (14 photos) | LSC-LASP Protecting the Promise (5-page PDF)
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In-person: Legal Clinic in Exton - May 8 | |
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Wednesday, May 8 from 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
- Also: June 12, 2024
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at PA CareerLink of Chester County, 479 Thomas Jones Way, Suite 500, Exton, PA 19380
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Flyer (1-page PDF), or click image at right
EXTON - A free legal clinic will be held monthly at PA CareerLink of Chester County. The clinics will be the second Wednesday of the month through June 2024.
To schedule a 30-minute appointment with a LASP attorney, contact Edwina at 610-429-9400, ext. 4115 or ejohnson@uwchestercounty.org. (Note: The number given is to make the appointment only. Please save the discussion of your legal situation for the meeting with the attorney.)
The clinics are a partnership between LASP, United Way of Chester County's Financial Stability Center, and PA CareerLink of Chester County.
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In-person: Legal Outreach at Norristown Hospitality Center - May 9 | |
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Thursday, May 9 from 9-10:30 a.m.
- Also: June 13, July 11, Aug. 8
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Norristown Hospitality Center, 530 Church St., 1st floor, Norristown, PA 19401
NORRISTOWN - Legal Aid of Southeastern PA will hold a free legal outreach at the Norristown Hospitality Center the second Thursday of each month.
Please stop by our table. If you prefer to sign up in advance, contact Erika Felpel at 484-275-0672 or efelpel@lasp.org for more information, eligibility, and to schedule a time slot.
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In-person: Senior Fair in Wynnewood - May 9 | |
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Thursday, May 9 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
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Kaiserman JCC, 45 Haverford Road, Wynnewood, PA 19096
WYNNEWOOD - State Rep. Mary Jo Daley will host her annual Senior Fair, featuring numerous vendors all under one roof – including state, federal and local agencies, veterans’ organizations, insurance providers, community organizations and more.
Stop by LASP’s table at this event!
Main Line Health is slated to provide blood pressure screenings, and the Montgomery County District Attorney’s office will be making a presentation on scams relevant to seniors.
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In-person: Expungement Clinic in Brookhaven - May 9 | |
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Thursday, May 9 from 6-8 p.m.
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Brookhaven Municipal Center, 2 Cambridge Road, Brookhaven 19015
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Flyer (1-page PNG), or click image at right
BROOKHAVEN - Join Rep. Leanne Krueger and LASP for a free Expungement Clinic on. Appointments start at 6 p.m.
Do you have a criminal record? You may be able to seal it. At this clinic you can talk with experts and receive important information about the new Clean Slate 3.0 law.
Registration is required. Call Rep. Krueger’s office at 610-534-6880 or email RepKrueger@pahouse.net for more information and to reserve your spot.
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In-person: Senior Resource Fair in Fort Washington - May 10 | |
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Friday, May 10 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
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Operating Engineers Local 542 at 1375 Virginia Drive, Fort Washington 19034
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Flyer (1-page JPG), or click image at right
FORT WASHINGTON - Area residents ages 65+, health care workers, and caregivers are invited to a Senior Resource Fair showcasing resources specifically designed for seniors. State Reps. Melissa Cerrato, Nancy Guenst and Ben Sanchez are hosting the event.
Resources include state and local organizations that focus on seniors’ health and fitness, their social lives, and financial well-being. Stop by LASP’s table at this event!
COVID vaccine boosters will be available, provided by Horsham Pharmacy.
For more information, contact 215-517-6800 or CBradley@pahouse.net.
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In-person: Expungement Clinic in Aldan - May 14 | |
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Tuesday, May 14 from 5:30-7:30 p.m.
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McBlain Community Center, 210 Shisler Ave., Aldan, PA 19018
- Register via Rep. Boyd’s office: 484-200-1563
ALDAN - State Rep. Heather Boyd is hosting LASP attorneys for an Expungement Clinic
- Only PA arrests are eligible.
- Many misdemeanor convictions may be sealed if seven years have passed.
- Must have no current criminal charges.
- Must not be currently serving probation.
- Some low-level drug & property-related felony convictions may be sealed if 10 years have passed.
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Hybrid: Expungement Clinic in Exton & Virtual - May 15 | |
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EXTON - Learn how to clear your criminal record at this hybrid workshop. Choose in-person or virtual. (Please check spam/junk folders if Zoom link is not in your inbox.)
The workshop is a presented in partnership with United Way of Chester County, PA CareerLink of Chester County, and LASP.
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In-person: Senior Health Expo in West Chester - May 15 | |
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Wednesday, May 15 from 12:30-2:30 p.m.
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West Chester Senior Center, 530 E. Union St., West Chester, PA 19382
WEST CHESTER - The West Chester Area Senior Center will host its annual Spring Health Expo. Over 35 local organizations will attend this event. The event is at . Everyone is welcome!
Stop by LASP's table for information on how to get help with civil legal issues.
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In-person: Senior Legal Clinic in Narberth - May 16 | |
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Thursday, May 16 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
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at Narberth Municipal Center, 100 Conway Avenue, Narberth, PA 19072
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Flyer (1-page PDF), or click image at right
NARBERTH - Join Rep. Mary Jo Daley and LASP for a free Senior Legal Clinic.
Get help with simple wills, durable Powers of Attorney and healthcare directives at no cost for seniors (60+) who meet LASP’s income guidelines.
Registration is required. To ask a question or sign up, contact Erika Felpel at efelpel@lasp.org or 484-275-0672.
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Virtual: Clean Slate & Expungement Workshop - May 16 | |
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Legal Aid of Southeastern PA will present a free, virtual Clean Slate and Expungement Workshop in partnership with the Coatesville Center for Community Health.
Learn if you are eligible to have your criminal record sealed or expunged LASP attorneys will help screen your PA record for FREE. Help will be available to complete the necessary forms for those that are eligible.
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
Questions? Email ccch@comcast.net.The workshop is open to the public.
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Hybrid: Understanding Unemployment Compensation Basics in Exton & Virtual - May 20 | |
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EXTON - Learn from a LASP attorney at this hybrid workshop, "Understand the basics of Unemployment Compensation: What every employee should know BEFORE they apply." Please check spam/junk folders if the link does not appear in your inbox.
The workshop is a presented in partnership with United Way of Chester County, PA CareerLink of Chester County, and LASP.
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In-person: Mobile Home Tax Reassessment Clinic in Phoenixville - May 22 | |
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Wednesday, May 22 from 5-7 p.m.
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Phoenixville Area Senior Center, 153 Church St., Phoenixville 19460
- Flyer (1-page PDF): English | Spanish
PHOENIXVILLE - Join LASP and United Way of Chester County for a Mobile Home Tax Reassessment outreach event! Get your mobile home taxes reassessed for free. Help will be available in English and Spanish. Since 2019, this impactful project has helped 1,014 mobile home owners save $800 annually!
What to bring:
- Know the year, make, model and size of your mobile home
- A property tax bill, preferably the school tax bill
- Title or sales agreement to your mobile home (information about how much you paid for the home, including a bill of sale if you purchased within the past 5 years)
- Insurance information
More information:
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In-person: Legal Clinic in Lansdale - May 23 | |
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Thursday, May 23 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. (monthly)
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at Manna on Main Street / North Penn Commons, 606 E. Main St., Lansdale, PA 19446
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Flyer (1-page PDF), or click image at right
LANSDALE - LASP will hold a free monthly outreach event at North Penn Commons / Manna on Main Street in Lansdale. Stop by our table!
Have a question? Contact Erika Felpel at 484-275-0672 or efelpel@lasp.org.
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In-person: Veterans Resource Fair in Malvern - June 1 | |
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Saturday, June 1 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
- at Greencastle, 400 Chesterfield Parkway, Malvern 19355
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Flyer (1-page PDF), or click image at right
MALVERN - The second annual Veterans Resource Fair is for veterans and their families. It is presented by the Chester County Veterans Advisory Council & Chester County Dep. of Veterans Affairs.
Stop by LASP’s table at this event for information on VA benefits, discharge upgrades and other civil legal matters.
The event will feature music, food, fun & veteran resources.
For more information visit: https://www.chesco.org/5353/Veterans-Resource-Fair
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In-person: Veterans Resource Fair in Springfield - June 4 | |
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Tuesday, June 4 from 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
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Springfield YMCA, 194 W. Sproul Road, Springfield, PA 19064
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Flyer (1-page JPG), or click image at right
SPRINGFIELD - The Delaware County Office of Military & Veteran Affairs is hosting a Veterans Resource Fair Tuesday, June 4, 2024 from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. at the Springfield YMCA, 194 W. Sproul Road, Springfield, PA 19064.
Stop by LASP's table at this event for information on VA benefits, discharge upgrades and other civil legal matters.
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MIE training for legal aid managers
BALTIMORE - Pictured at the Management Information Exchange (MIE) Conference for Legal Aid Managers in Baltimore April 11 are Megan Reinprecht (at left), LASP Community Engagement Staff Attorney; Shawn Boehringer, LASP Executive Director; and Kesha James, MIE Executive Director and LASP Board member.
Shawn presented as part of a panel discussion, "Listserv Live! Hot Topics in Legal Aid Management" with Abigail G. Daquiz, Director of Advocacy for Northwest Justice Project; Somil Trivedi, Chief Legal and Advocacy Director for Maryland Legal Aid; and Kesha James.
Held April 10-11 at the Royal Sonesta Harbor Court in Baltimore, the conference celebrated the theme, "Renewing the promise of legal aid: Respecting the past, embracing the present, creating the future."
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National Crime Victims' Rights Week April 21-27, 2024
MEDIA - National Crime Victims’ Rights Week was recognized April 25 at an event in front of the Delaware County Courthouse in Media. LASP's Delco VOCA attorneys Carly Wells (at left), Staff Attorney, and Kimberly Hollenback, VOCA Supervising Attorney and Media Office Managing Attorney, joined other organizations to share information and resources.
LASP helps victims of domestic violence in Bucks, Chester, Delaware & Montgomery counties.
Website News article | Facebook reel
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NORRISTOWN - Some LASP staff took a moment to experience the solar eclipse in Norristown on April 8. Although clouds rolled in to block the view during totality (92% in southeastern PA), the partial eclipse before and after was visible! | |
LASP career opportunities | |
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CHESTER City
- City of Chester Staff Attorney
- Administrative Assistant
DOYLESTOWN
- Doylestown Staff Attorney
NORRISTOWN
- Helpline Paralegal/Administrative Support Staff
- Regional Disaster Relief Case Manager
POTTSTOWN
WEST CHESTER
- VOCA Staff Attorney, Staff Attorney & Paralegal
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April featured a 4.8 earthquake on April 5 based in Whitehouse Station, NJ and felt throughout our service area, a solar eclipse on April 8 (scroll up), and a double rainbow (above) on April 12. | |
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