Bay Area Regional Disability Rights California Legal Aid

Contact Information

Name: Bay Area Regional Disability Rights California Legal Aid
Address: 1330 Broadway, Suite 500, Oakland, CA - 94612
Phone: (510) 267-1200
Fax:

Service Information

Disability Rights California provides advocacy help for Californians with disabilities. You could be eligible for services if:
You have a developmental disability.
You are a regional center consumer.
You have a psychiatric disability or emotional impairment.
You are a patient in a state psychiatric hospital.
You have a physical, learning or sensory disability.
You have a traumatic brain injury.
You need access to new technology that you believe may help you live a fuller, more independent life.
You receive SSI or SSDI and need help with employment issues or keeping your benefits when you return to work.
You have questions about your right to vote.


10 free services Disability Rights California provides to eligible individuals
advice about legal, civil and service rights
technical assistance, training, publications and advocacy support for Californians with disabilities, their families and representatives
legislative advocacy to ensure laws benefit Californians with disabilities
investigate complaints about serious physical and sexual abuse and neglect-related deaths in institutions
outreach to traditionally underserved ethnic and disability communities
peer self-advocacy services for people with psychiatric or developmental disabilities
patients' rights advocacy for state psychiatric hospital residents, technical assistance and training for county advocates
rights advocacy for clients with developmental disabilities who are receiving services at regional centers
bringing impact litigation and acting as amicus curiae in disability-related cases
represent individuals based on priorities and case selection criteria



How we can help
If you have a disability and qualify for services, we can help you with problems like:
rights to basic support, personal care, therapy and health care like Supplemental Security Income (SSI), health care services including In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS), Medi-Cal, and California Children's Services (CCS)
discrimination in housing, transportation, employment, and access to public and private programs and services
abuse, neglect, and rights violations in an institution
least restrictive environment, dignity, privacy, choice, and other basic rights
special education rights
mental health and support services that provide individualized treatment
regional center eligibility and services that promote independence such as supported living and family supports
voting registration, vote casting and accessible polling places
access to technology like communication devices and power wheelchairs



Mission Statement: Disability Rights California advocates, educates, investigates, and litigates to advance the rights, dignity, equal opportunities, and choices for all people with disabilities.

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.