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The Rebound: Free legal services available during COVID-19 pandemic

Posted at 9:26 PM, May 21, 2020
and last updated 2020-05-21 23:26:26-04

As we try to rebound from the pandemic - some Utahns need help with legal issues.

FOX 13 gathered some of the resources people can tap into.

With so many communities hurting right now financially - there are attorneys who are offering their legal services, free of charge.

A new report from Utah Foundation shows that there is a major gap when it comes to lower-income Utahns being represented in civil legal cases.

For example - more than two-thirds of Utah’s lower-income who were surveyed said they could not afford a lawyer if they need one.

Their most pressing legal needs are financial - such as debt collection, and employment issues - like pay, overtime and benefits.

Domestic violence cases have also gone up during the pandemic.

Right now, many Utahns are facing eviction due to lost jobs and mounting bills.

The Utah Bar Foundation is trying to fill that gap.

They can connect with you an attorney who can help you with things like - negotiating rent with your landlord, and offering credit counseling.

For more info, click the resources below:

utahlegalhelp.org

The Justice Gap: Addressing the inner needs of lower-income Utahns:www.utahfoundation.org

Utah State Bar's access to Justice Office: probono@utahbar.org

801-297-7053 or 801-297-7053