Legal Assistance Element 50 pg. 219

JAX/Norfolk Purpose To review some of the no-cost services available at your base legal office and encourage TSMs to use these resources before they separate.

Free legal help with: Powers of attorney Reviewing leases and rental contracts Living will Notary services Estate planning Consumer issues Specific legal services may vary by installation, but your legal assistance office can generally help with the following: 1.A power of attorney allows one person to legally act on your behalf on legal and money matters. For example, a power of attorney document can appoint someone to release your household goods shipment if you're leaving before your furniture will ship or bank on your behalf while you are deployed. 2. A lawyer can review your lease or rental contract before you sign it to be sure the terms are acceptable, and that the agreement includes any military rental protection clauses for your state. 3. With a living will, you can declare what medical treatment or life- sustaining measures you want or don’t want if you become seriously ill or injured. 4,. Notaries can administer oaths, witness signatures, take acknowledgements, sworn statements and affidavits, and more.

Free legal help with: Tax assistance Family care plan Family law Service member rights and responsibilities Civil lawsuits Immigration and naturalization Estate planning is an important part of retirement planning and can include: Drafting of a will, a legally binding document describing how you want your property and belongings distributed after your death. Designating your beneficiaries 0r Planning ahead should you become mentally or physically disabled. 6. If you're having credit problems, if you believe you're the victim of a scam or if you have a dispute over a consumer issue, legal assistance attorneys may help you communicate and negotiate with collection agencies, lawyers or other parties. 7. Many legal assistance offices operate tax centers or provide income tax return preparation to help with filing federal, state or local taxes. 8 A family care plan serves as a blueprint, for military purposes, for how you want your family cared for while you’re deployed. A plan is required for single parents, dual-military couples with children, or if you care for a disabled or elderly family member. Legal assistance offices can review and advise on this matter.

Tips Call as far in advance as possible for an appointment When separating, plan ahead and take care of legal affairs while you are still eligible Retirees can use the installation legal (and financial planning) offices on a space-available basis. Depending on the location, you may have to wait to see a representative.

Local Resources http://www.jag.navy.mil/legal_services/rlso/rlso_southwest.htm

Sample Articles at www.militaryonesource.mil/legal Military Legal Resources Available to You 12 Situations Where You Can Get Free Legal Help Life Happens: Legal Assistance and Paperwork for Service Members and Families What to Expect When Meeting With Your Lawyer

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