Senior Citizen Legal Services ​- Watsonville Senior Center

Contact Information

Name: Senior Citizen Legal Services ​- Watsonville Senior Center
Address: 114 E. Fifth Street, Watsonville, CA - 95077
Phone: (831) 426-8824
Fax: (831) 426-3345

Service Information

Located at the Watsonville Senior Center.


Hours:

Tues by appointment 1:00pm - 4:00pm


Provides free legal services to elderly residents of Santa Cruz and San Benito Counties.

The highest priority of the organization is to defend the right of the elderly to quality health care, social integration, to secure their persons and property, and to be free of discrimination on the basis of age or disability.

Eligibility


Residents of either Santa Cruz or San Benito Counties may receive SCLS services.

Services are available to persons who are at least 60 years of age or older

Eligibility does not depend on a clients income and assets, but, SCLS attempts to direct its limited resources towards seniors who have the greatest social and economic needs.


Initial interviews are conducted by trained paralegals. Each week, paralegals and lawyers meet to discuss new cases. Most work is performed by the paralegal under the ongoing direction of an attorney. Cases involving litigation are handled by an attorney.


Cost:

There is no charge for legal services obtained at SCLS, except for court-ordered or administratively-approved fees under EAPP.

Donations are accepted from clients and other supporters who wish to contribute.

Donations are usually tax deductible. In addition, SCLS gratefully accepts bequests from clients and supporters.

Frequent Cases:

Medicare and Medi-Cal Health insurance
Elder abuse
Social Security & SSI
Age discrimination
Consumer problems
Debt collection defense
Mobile home problems
Tenant rights
Nursing homes, residential care facilities and patient rights


Rarely they accept cases involving Fee generating matters such as personal injury cases, Wills and/or probate, Tax problems, Securities or investments, Bankruptcy, Criminal defense, including traffic offenses.

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.