Published: March 29, 2011
Mickey Rooney-Inspired Abuse Hotline Announced Today
SACRAMENTO- California seniors who suffer domestic abuse is a growing problem nationwide according to recent congressional testimony. But they can now obtain free legal assistance from a new program at the California Senior Legal Hotline (SLH), operated under auspices of the Sacramento-based nonprofit Legal Services of Northern California
Thanks to a grant from the U.S. Department of Justice, SLH is able to provide broad-ranging legal assistance to California victims of domestic violence over 60 who are experiencing stalking, physical or emotional abuse (including threats) or neglect by a family member, spouse, partner, caregiver or someone he or she lives with.
This growing problem was highlighted during a recent hearing of the Senate Special Committee on Aging. Actor Mickey Rooney, who shared his own story of abuse by a family member with the committee, said, "I felt trapped, scared, used and frustrated," according to The New York Times.
Elder victims can call for free, confidential advice on any legal matter they face. The toll-free statewide number is (800) 222-1753. SLH can also connect callers to local domestic violence programs so they can get the additional support they need.
In Sacramento County, senior victims may receive additional help, for instance to obtain court protection orders against abusers. The local number is (916) 551-2140. SLH does not operate an emergency line. Anyone who feels immediately threatened should call 911.
California Senior Legal Hotline is undertaking the project under a grant from the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Violence Against Women, in partnership with the National Adult Protective Services Association (NAPSA) and Volunteers of America in Sacramento.
SLH, which has provided fast, efficient, free legal assistance on all subjects to more than 100,000 California seniors over the past two decades, is introducing this vital service for abuse victims just as this core function is being slashed.
A loss of all state and federal funding for general legal advice means that far fewer seniors can get help. Moreover, service for callers outside Sacramento County is now limited to:
Legal help for older victims of domestic violence, as announced here.
Counseling on pension-related matters (no age limit, and available also to residents of Arizona, Hawaii and Nevada). Dedicated phone lines: (916) 930-4911 or (866) 413-4911.
Counseling on any matter involving a senior's housing" from evictions to utility issues to neighbor disputes. A HUD-approved housing counseling agency, SLH is able to advise callers regarding threats of foreclosure and reverse mortgages.
Determining whether callers are eligible for CalFresh (formerly food stamps) and advising them on how to enroll, helping with the process if needed. Sacramento Senior Legal Services, operated jointly with SLH, can provide additional help to local residents:
Local seniors can still get advice and in some instances, more help, regarding any legal issue.
Local grandparents and others over 55 dealing with care, custody or visitation of minors can receive extra help with these and other matters.
Callers facing disputes may also, in addition to legal advice, receive mediation services aimed at resolving the issue and keeping it from escalating into a court battle.
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