When disasters strike Texas, the State Bar of Texas serves as a clearinghouse for disaster response resources for the public and attorneys.
The State Bar of Texas toll-free legal hotline — 1-800-504-7030 — connects low-income people affected by a disaster with legal aid providers in their area who can help with such issues as replacing lost documents, insurance questions, landlord-tenant problems, and consumer protection matters such as price-gouging and avoiding contractor scams in the rebuilding process. The hotline is answered in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese. Callers can leave a message any time. People who qualify for assistance will be matched with Texas lawyers who can provide free, limited legal help.
TYLA has created several guides to assist lawyers and the public in case of a disaster.
Employment During Natural Disasters
Empleo Durante Desastres Naturales
If your employment has been affected by a natural disaster, there are important things you need to know.
Enrolling Your Child In Another School After A Natural Disaster
If your child’s school district has closed due to a natural disaster, your child can enroll in school elsewhere.
Hiring a Contractor After a Natural Disaster
A resource to Texans for hiring construction professionals, including general “Do’s” and “Don’ts” for hiring a contractor or other professional to help rebuild in the wake of natural disasters.
In Case of Emergency
Preparation is the key to picking up the pieces when a disaster strikes. The information included below are some helpful suggestions on how you can protect yourself and your family from unnecessary distress.
Just In Case
This guide will highlight some of the important things to consider when an attorney becomes incapacitated or deceased. This guide will present a brief overview on the importance of having an up-to-date estate plan as well as address strategies for successfully transitioning a law practice.
Know Your FEMA Rights
This guide is helpful for understanding why FEMA exists, how FEMA can help you, and how to apply for FEMA aid. If you have sustained damage or loss because of Hurricane Harvey in a declared disaster area, you should apply for FEMA Aid.
Lost Documents During A Disaster
When disaster happens, making sure your loved ones are safe and protected is your number one priority. Dealing with the aftermath
often involves having to replace necessary documents. This guide is intended to be an abbreviated checklist to help you obtain
replacements of some of those necessary documents.
Additional Disaster Relief Resources
Disaster Relief Resources from the State Bar of Texas can be found here.
