The Dutchess County Office For The Aging funds a Legal Services for Older Adults Program designed to provide legal assistance to Dutchess County residents age 60 and over. The program has no financial eligibility requirement; however, it is intended for those older adults who would otherwise be unable to afford legal assistance.
The Office For The Aging contracts with a private attorney, Paul I. Weinberger, for this service.
The primary focus of legal advice and representation is generally on immediate threats to income, shelter, patients’ rights, and health matters, including advance directives. Clients are assisted in areas such as Medicaid and Medicare eligibility and termination; consumer issues, and property rights. Help is also available for evictions, and access to public assistance and Social Security.
Preparation of simple wills is also available.
Services are available only by appointment, only on Fridays. Contact OFA at 845-486-2555 during business hours for more information.
Prospective clients may make an appointment through the Dutchess County Office For The Aging at [toll free] 866-486-2555 or 845-486-2555. There is no fee for this service, but contributions are accepted.
AARP Legal Services 1-866-330-0753 or 202-434-2120 - Offers AARP members free initial consultations and reduced rates for ongoing assistance from local attorneys.
Dutchess County Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service, 845-473-2488 - Lists lawyers categorically.
Dutchess County Family Court, 845-431-1850 - Can assign counsel for low income residents in certain family law related matters.
Dutchess County Department of Community and Family Services (DCFS, formerly known as Social Services), 845-486-3000 - Has a list of attorneys that charge reduced fees for support (child and spousal) cases.
Dutchess County Public Defender, 845-486-2280 - Has a list of attorneys doing pro bono criminal representation and a reduced fee list.
Family Advocates, Inc., 845-339-8080 - Offers legal advocacy to individuals with a disability and their families.
Hudson Valley Bankruptcy Bar Association Pro Bono Program, 845-486-6813 - Assistance with filing for bankruptcy with attorneys who waive their fee for income eligible clients.
Legal Services of the Hudson Valley, 845-471-0058 - Provides legal assistance to income eligible individuals and families for landlord/tenant, public benefits, and Social Security disability claims and some other matters.
Mental Hygiene Legal Services, 845-483-8460 - Represents low-income persons in guardianship, commitments and other mental health proceedings.
For more information contact: Dutchess County Office for the Aging at 845-486-2555, or toll free at 866-486-2555.
